Listen to Taylor Howard in his own voice.

Black history is American history, and it is our responsibility to cultivate spaces to engage with it. We must ensure that everyone has the opportunity to draw inspiration and wisdom from African American historic places [and people].

We must tell stories that reflect our complex and difficult past—and help us shape a better collective future. Though America may be rich in diverse history, our society has often been poor in representing that history and in funding its protection, conservation, and recognition. That’s why we [must] actively invest in and restore cultural assets that hold exceptional cultural value. This petition is about making room—within our understanding of history, preservation, and social justice—for a movement that uses preservation as a force for enacting positive social change.

That withstanding, please help us acknowledge the longstanding legacy of Mr. Taylor Howard (age 107) by renaming 17th Avenue (in Gulfport's Soria City neighborhood) after this most cherished Soria City community stakeholder.   A decorated veteran of the 92nd Infantry Division, this Buffalo Soldier "returned to Gulfport and fought for freedom and equality and helped bring the Head Start program to the Mississippi Gulf Coast and the Neighborhood Watch program to Gulfport...was vice president of the NAACP....started a construction business and built houses and churches around the Gulf Coast...operated two movie theaters during segregation so all kids could go to the movies."  Mr. Taylor served his country, raised his family, loved his neighbors, and continue to, at the age of 107, believe that racial equity and inclusion is an outward expression of love, justice, and peace on Earth.  Let's celebrate this most honorable Mississippian by renaming 17th Avenue after him, even now, while he's still very much alive to witness it.