Los Angeles City Council Renames Pershing Square to Honor Biddy Mason

Background and Decision

The Los Angeles City Council voted to rename Pershing Square after Bridget “Biddy” Mason, acknowledging her significant contributions to the city’s history. Born into slavery, Mason became a prosperous landowner and co-founded the First African Methodist Episcopal Church, a major institution in the Black community.

The unanimous vote directs officials to begin the renaming process for the five-acre plaza near the Biltmore Hotel. Rev. Timothy E. Tyler from the First AME Church advocated for the change, emphasizing its importance in preserving historical figures who helped build Los Angeles.

Rationale and Reflections

Councilmember Ysabel Jurado highlighted Mason as an exemplary figure of resilience and hope in the spirit of Los Angeles. The square, one of the city’s oldest, was initially dedicated in 1866 and renamed Pershing Square in 1918 to honor the World War I general.

“When we talk about the Angeleno spirit, resilience, hope, and a refusal to let injustice define what’s impossible for us, there may be no better example of that than Biddy Mason,” Jurado said.

Opinions and Criticisms

Some opposed the name change. Courtland Jindra argued that removing military memorials might lead to further erasures. Kim Cooper expressed concerns over preserving historical integrity while acknowledging Pershing and Mason’s integrity.

Kevin Waite, a historian, supported the renaming due to Mason’s local significance. Her land ownership near the park aligns with honoring her legacy.

Biddy Mason’s Story

Mason was born into slavery in Mississippi in 1818. She gained freedom in California in 1856 after contesting her legal status. Her journey involved walking from Mississippi to California, caring for her children, and working alongside free individuals.

Mason’s legacy included one of the first challenges against slavery in Los Angeles, setting a precedent for freedom. Her accomplishments were recognized with a mini-park memorial in Los Angeles.

Future Developments

The previous proposal to rename Pershing Square languished due to political disputes. Mason’s descendant, Robynn Cox, supports the change, seeing it as a crucial acknowledgment of her forebear’s influence.