The Black Family Statue Returns to Mountain View Community Park

June 25, 2026

A community celebration took place at Neal Petties Mountain View Community Park in June to reveal a restored Black Family statue that had originally stood from 1974 until the late 1980s before deteriorating. Community leader Jeffery Hayes spearheaded the restoration effort, working with numerous supporters including Senator Akilah Weber, sculptor Mike Bradbury, and the Wade family to recreate the monument in carbon steel for long-term durability. The unveiling ceremony featured speeches from city representatives and community leaders who emphasized the statue's representation of hope and the importance of family in Black culture.

Who is affected

Southeast San Diego residents and park visitors
Jeffery Hayes (community leader who led the restoration)
The Wade family (relatives of original statue designer Rossie S. Wade)
Senator Akilah Weber, journalist Paul Krueger, sculptor Mike Bradbury (supporters)
City representatives including Monica Montgomery-Steppe (District 4), Daniel Horton, Carole Boyce, and Lynn Brown
Community-based organizations
Makeda Dread Cheatom (who provided blessing)

What action is being taken

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Why it matters

The Black Family statue serves as an important cultural symbol recognizing the significance of family within Black culture and represents hope for the community. The restoration preserves a piece of neighborhood history that disappeared decades ago, providing Southeast San Diego residents with a lasting monument (now made of durable carbon steel) that acknowledges their community's values and heritage at a public park where it can be viewed by future generations.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint