GREEN COVE SPRINGS – Dr. Michael Henry was once classmates with Mayor Connie Butler. He couldn’t help but reminiscence over fond memories of Green Cove Springs. His father taught science at Dunbar High (now “R. C. Bannerman Learning Center”), which was designated as the all-black high school during segregation.

As a Black man with family from the south, Henry recounted how his ancestors suffered from violent racism during Jim Crow. It is still painful history to him, but Henry stressed the importance of never forgetting one’s history.

“Reflection is apart of remembering. There are those who want us to forget,” Henry said.

Ten months ago, Henry’s family was contacted by a professor from the University of Central Florida. As Henry stayed on the line, he realized that the call was not going to be a pleasant one. The words that professor said over the phone were traumatic, Henry said. The professor had just linked a lynching that occurred in 1925 to Henry’s family tree.

Arthur Henry was murdered on the eve of Thanksgiving.

“There are those who don’t want us to remember or reflect on our history and our struggle. And the struggle continues.” Henry said. “We stand on the shoulders of giants, and we did not get here ourselves.”

Henry honored Arther Henry, Martin Luther King Jr. and all of those who have sacrificed their lives in the pursuit of freedom and equality.

“Only through sacrifice will justice be achieved,” he said. 

Vera Francis Hall Park itself is located on the west end of Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard. The City of Green Cove Springs and the Board of County Commisioners read from proclamations that affirmed the importance of  King's legacy and honored his sacrifice for freedom and equality.