Montclair Honors 35 Years of Grand Marshals with African-American Heritage Banners

In celebration of its rich history and the invaluable contributions of African-American leaders in our town of Montclair, the Montclair African-American Heritage Foundation has partnered with the Montclair Center Bid to unveil a series of heritage banners throughout the Business District. The banners begin at the corner of Maple Avenue and Bloomfield Avenue nodding to the festival’s roots in Glenfield Park and travel down Bloomfield Avenue. The banners honor the remarkable Grand Marshals of the Montclair African-American Heritage Parade and Festival, dating back to the parade’s inception in 1990. The display serves as a tribute to the lasting impact the honorees have made on the Montclair African-American community.

This year marks the 35th anniversary of the Montclair African-American Heritage Parade, and the banner display is a vibrant recognition of the trailblazers who have led the parade as Grand Marshals over the years, though some honored posthumously. The initiative brings together history, culture, and pride as Montclair honors its diverse heritage and the individuals who have shaped its narrative.

From civil rights advocates such as this year’s honoree The Montclair N.A.A.C.P and the 2019 honoree William Scott, to educators, and historians such as Betty Holloway, also a 2019 honoree, and Avissa Peniston-Beek a 2024 honoree. To political leaders who were amongst the very founders of the Foundation such as 2004 honoree Audrey Fletcher Lee, and political leaders who have sadly left us such as the late NJ Assemblywoman Sheila Oliver, a 2016 honoree. To the undeniable, late, but great Marshals honored posthumously such as the previous long-term chair and president of the foundation Albert Pelham. Another highlight amongst the banners is the 2012 honoree who was then Councilwoman and previous committee member Dr. Renee Baskerville, now Mayor Bakersville.

Each Grand Marshal honored has left an indelible mark on the town, and their legacies will now be proudly showcased along the streets they helped influence. The banners feature the names of each honoree as well as the years that they were honored.

The Montclair African-American Heritage Committee looks forward to celebrating our 35th year with the Montclair community on Saturday, June 7 th where MAAHF will celebrate 2025 grand marshals and committee members Cathy Stephenson and Wetau Mcpherson for their selfless service and long-serving commitment to our organization.