Eastlake Park
Introduction
Text-to-speech Audio
Eastlake Park, created in 1914, holds special historical and cultural significance for Phoenix. The park and surrounding neighborhood have been the center of African American life in the city for much of the 20th century and this continues today. It was the only area in Phoenix where African Americans could live and the park the sole place where they could relax and gather. As such, the park became a focal point for not only social gatherings but also civil rights activities as well including rallies and speeches here; the park also served as a starting point for marches. To keep this history alive, the park holds annual Martin Luther King, Jr. and Juneteenth celebrations. Black Lives Matter rallies have also been held here. There is also the Phoenix Arts Commission Civil Rights Memorial. In terms of attractions and activities, the park features a pool, band shell, gym, baseball field, community center, and a children's playground.
Images
Backstory and Context
Text-to-speech Audio
Sources
"Eastlake Park." The Historical Marker Database. Accessed March 15, 2017. http://www.hmdb.org/marker.asp?MarkerID=55058.
Illich, Fara. "Eastlake Park Provides Cultural Connection for Phoenix's African American Community." February 27, 2017. http://dtphx.org/2017/02/17/eastlake-park-provides-cultural-connection-for-phoenixs-african-american...
Rodriquez, Nadine A. "Did You Know: Phoenix Park Is Over 100 Years Old." September 13, 2013. http://kjzz.org/content/4960/did-you-know-phoenix-park-over-100-years-old.
Photos: Tceng, via The Historical Marker Database