Statue Unveiling: Stockton University
Stockton, New Jersey
October 10, 2023
On Tuesday, Oct. 10, 2023, Dr. Patricia Reid-Merritt, a Distinguished Professor of Africana Studies and Social Work at Stockton University, donated a statue to Atlantic City, New Jersey to commemmorate Fannie Lou Hamer’s impassioned speech delivered there 60 years ago.
“For all the great things and contributions that Fannie Lou Hamer made to the civil rights struggle, what she is known for is that speech in Atlantic City. It’s a tribute to her legacy and Stockton’s efforts to uplift her legacy,” - Reid-Merritt said.
Reid-Merritt spearheaded the effort to erect a statue of Hamer in her hometown of Ruleville, Mississippi in 2012. The statue, designed by New Jersey native and artist, Brian Hanlon of Hanlon Sculpture Studio.
“This statue will both educate and inspire young people here,” Hanlon said. “They should learn more about [Mrs. Hamer]. I don’t think her story is told enough. The spirit of her as a woman in encouraging other women to get involved with politics and voter rights is very important.”
(All photos by Lizzie Nealis)
(l to r) President Joe Bertolino; Brian Jackson, chief operating officer of Stockton’s Atlantic City campus; Patricia Reid-Merritt, Stockton Distinguished Professor of Africana Studies and Social Work; Brian Hanlon, sculptor of the statue; and Donnetrice Allison, professor of Africana Studies and Communication Studies.
