Maryland civil rights advocates are rallying for a change in the names of two bridges in the state, including the Francis Scott Key Bridge which recently collapsed.
At a meeting of the Caucus of African American Leaders on Monday, two resolutions were introduced seeking to rename the Key Bridge and the Frederick C. Malkus Bridge. The resolutions were unanimously passed, proposing to rename the bridges after individuals who have made significant contributions to Maryland. The Key Bridge would be renamed after Congressman Parren J. Mitchell, the first Black Marylander elected to Congress, and the Malkus Bridge would be named after civil rights activist Gloria Richardson.
Caucus convener Carl Snowden delivered the resolutions to Gov. Wes Moore’s office, expressing their belief that the change is essential for Maryland’s progress despite expected opposition.
Following the recent collapse of the Key Bridge when it was hit by a cargo carrier, the caucus has urged Gov. Moore to honor the six construction workers who lost their lives in the incident.
This movement to rename the bridges aligns with a broader trend in Maryland of reevaluating symbols honoring controversial historical figures. Statues such as that of Supreme Court Justice Roger B. Taney and the “Talbot Boys Statue” commemorating Confederate soldiers have been removed in recent years due to their contentious legacies.
The Key Bridge collapse has sparked a deeper examination of Key’s history, revealing his contradictory relationship with slavery and racist views. Similarly, Malkus’ opposition to civil rights legislation has prompted calls for the renaming of the bridge bearing his name.
In a meeting with Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke, civil rights leaders discussed the significance of renaming the bridges as part of ongoing efforts for racial equality and justice.
