After a prolonged period of anticipation, the heart of Nubian Square in Boston has finally welcomed the statue of General Edward O. Gourdin, a prominent Black veteran. This momentous occasion marks the completion of the Gourdin Memorial Park project, a vision that began over two decades ago and has now become a reality. The statue pays tribute to General Gourdin and commemorates the invaluable contributions of Black servicemen and women throughout history.
It began with a vision. Ralph Browne, a Korean War veteran and former aide de camp to General Gourdin, dedicated his post-war life to many national and local public service but always had as a primary goal ensuring recognition for Massachusetts Black service members. In 1997, he spearheaded an initiative with members of the 272nd Field Artillery Battalion Association, the Chief Justice of the Massachusetts Superior Court, and others to secure public space in the center of Roxbury, thus laying the foundation for the Gourdin Memorial Park project. Ralph Browne’s unwavering commitment to advocacy for Black veterans and his love for his Boston community paved the way for the unfolding transformation.
Wilma Browne, wife of the late Ralph Browne and a member of the Veterans and Friends of Gourdin Memorial Park Statue Committee, shared her thoughts on completing the project: “This has been a labor of love and perseverance. My husband envisioned a space where Black veterans would be honored and remembered, and the community would be inspired and engaged, and today, we celebrate the fulfillment of that vision.”
The Veterans and Friends of Gourdin Memorial Park was formed after Ralph’s passing by Haywood Fennell and Bill Venter, and with the assistance of General Gourdin’s alma mater, Harvard Law School. The Veterans and Friends met many challenges in constructing the statue, but their dedication and tireless efforts, with the financial, managerial, and legal support of the Browne family, turned the dream into a tangible symbol of appreciation for Black veterans.
Haywood Fennell, board president of the Veterans and Friends of Gourdin Memorial Park and a Vietnam veteran himself, reflected on the statue’s significance: “For far too long, the contributions of Black veterans have gone unrecognized. This memorial is a testament to their courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to this nation.”
Commissioner Robert Santiago of the Department of Veterans Affairs for the City of Boston emphasized the memorial’s importance in highlighting Black veterans’ often-overlooked achievements. He stated, “The Edward O. Gourdin Memorial Statue is not just a symbol of one man’s heroism; it represents the countless unsung heroes who served their country with distinction. Their stories deserve to be heard, celebrated, and never forgotten.”
Shirley Malone-Fenner, a current committee member, said, “Fundraising for this project has truly been a pleasure. Lending my talents to such important work, plus collaborating with a dedicated team brings joy to my heart. Having served in the military, I know how significant this memorial is for those who sacrificed for our country and for those who need a deeper understanding of the issues we still face. This memorial represents hope, aspiration, legacy, and unwavering appreciation for Black service members who made their imprint on history.”
Chantal Charles, an experienced advocate for public art memorials who worked closely with the late sculptor Fern Cunningham, expressed her joy at seeing Fern’s vision realized. “Fern believed deeply in the power of art to inspire and educate. It was an honor to work with her and see this incredible memorial come to life,” Charles remarked.
Rachelle Browne, daughter of Ralph and Wilma Browne and a committee member, expressed the historical and political significance of the park’s completion. “This memorial is a powerful testament to the resilience and strength of our community and hopefully will be joined, sooner rather than later, by many other new creative and transformative initiatives in Nubian Square.”
The public unveiling of the Edward O. Gourdin Memorial Statue in Gourdin Memorial Park will occur at 1 PM on Tuesday, August 1, 2023. All are encouraged to attend this momentous occasion, which will testify to the unwavering commitment and passion of the Veterans and Friends and their supporters. This monumental achievement not only commemorates the life and accomplishments of General Edward O. Gourdin but also shines a much-needed spotlight on the invaluable contributions of Black veterans throughout history.
