Creating greater awareness and understanding of an act of racial injustice that occurred in Springfield 113 years ago is the purpose of a community remembrance planned for Oct. 2. In 1906, three African American men named Horace Duncan, Fred Coker and William Allen were lynched in downtown Springfield.
The remembrance will include the dedication of an historical marker in Park Central Square. An Equal Justice Essay Contest will also encourage Springfield Public Schools students to reflect on the impact of racial injustice.
“We hope the remembrance we are planning will prompt meaningful conversations in our community which acknowledge injustices and lead to reconciliation and healing,” said Mayor Ken McClure.