In honor of Juneteenth weekend, Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis led a procession through Downtown Houston on June 20. The event included the unveiling of new historical markers dedicated to formerly enslaved people and victims of lynching in Harris County, and the presentation of the design for Harris County Remembrance Park.

In their own words

“Juneteenth reminds us that freedom has always had to be fought for, protected, expanded and made real in people’s daily lives,” Ellis said. “This project will transform a place shaped by history into a public space for reflection, learning, gathering and action.”

A closer look

The historical markers are located in the El Franco Lee Service Plaza. There is also a Freedom Marker for the formerly enslaved people of Harris County and their descendants.

According to a news release, the park will include a variety of features besides the markers, such as:

• Witness Grove
• Cypress Grove
• Memory Pavilion
• Canopy
• Bayou Overlook and Terraces
• Bayou Mirror
• Remembrance Courtyard

Also included in the park will be the Hush Harbor Gardens, referencing community spaces once used by enslaved people for group worship and organizing. The park is set to be completed in 2029.

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