About McIntosh Park
We chose to host the Dayton Black Pride Festival at McIntosh Park because of its profound ties to our Black heritage and the ongoing fight for equality and recognition for Black queer individuals. Named after William Sumpter McIntosh, a pioneering civil rights leader in Dayton who challenged racial segregation and discrimination, the park embodies the spirit of resilience and activism. By celebrating LGBTQ+ pride at McIntosh Park, we honor both the historical struggles and achievements of marginalized communities, emphasizing inclusivity and solidarity in our quest for social justice.
William Sumpter McIntosh
William Sumpter McIntosh was a pivotal civil rights leader in Dayton, Ohio, whose activism and advocacy shaped the course of equality in the community. Born on February 2, 1921, McIntosh dedicated his life to challenging racial segregation and advancing civil rights long before it gained widespread national attention.
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McIntosh, known affectionately as "Mac," firmly believed in the principles of non-violence as a means to achieve social justice. His journey as a civil rights leader began with efforts to negotiate for equal rights in Dayton. When these efforts were met with resistance, he courageously mobilized Dayton's African American community to engage in peaceful protests, boycotts, and pickets against discriminatory practices in employment and public accommodations.
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In 1955, McIntosh founded the West Side Citizens Council, serving as its president. This organization became a cornerstone for local civil rights activism, focusing on challenging racial inequalities in the workplace and advocating for fair hiring practices at establishments such as Famous Clothing Store and A&P Grocery.
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His leadership extended beyond Dayton as he played a key role in establishing and directing the Dayton branch of the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE). McIntosh also served as an advisor to the Dayton Chapter of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), collaborating closely with other civil rights leaders to strategize and implement nonviolent campaigns for equality.
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McIntosh's commitment to justice led him to organize numerous marches, not only in Dayton but also in prominent locations like Washington, D.C., and Selma, Alabama, where he stood in solidarity with national movements for civil rights.
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One of McIntosh's most notable protests occurred in 1963 at Rike-Kumler, a department store in downtown Dayton, where he and fellow activists staged a prolonged demonstration demanding an end to discriminatory hiring practices. His unwavering determination was evident when he and other protesters, after being denied a meeting with the company's president, staged a sit-in that drew attention and eventually led to policy changes.
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Tragically, McIntosh's life was cut short on March 4, 1974, when he was fatally shot while attempting to prevent a robbery at a jewelry store in downtown Dayton. His untimely death marked a profound loss for the community, but his legacy of courage, resilience, and dedication to equality lives on.
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In honor of his enduring impact, McIntosh Park in Dayton stands as a testament to his contributions to civil rights. Additionally, the University of Dayton commemorates his memory through the W.S. McIntosh Memorial Leadership Award, which recognizes African American students who exemplify his spirit of leadership and activism.
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William Sumpter McIntosh's life and work continue to inspire generations to strive for justice and equality, reminding us of the power of peaceful resistance in the pursuit of a more just society.
McIntosh Park
McIntosh Park in Dayton, Ohio, is named after W.S. McIntosh, a prominent figure in the city's history. W.S. McIntosh was known for his contributions to the local community, particularly in advocating for public parks and green spaces. His dedication to enhancing the quality of life in Dayton through accessible outdoor recreational areas led to the naming of the park in his honor.
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Today, McIntosh Park stands as a testament to his legacy, providing residents with a picturesque setting for relaxation, sports, and community events. The park's facilities and open spaces continue to reflect McIntosh's vision of creating a vibrant and inclusive environment for all to enjoy.
McIntosh Park & Dayton Black Pride Festival
William Sumpter McIntosh's profound impact as a civil rights leader in Dayton, Ohio, resonates deeply with the themes of equality and justice celebrated at McIntosh Park. Named in honor of McIntosh, who tirelessly fought against racial segregation and discrimination, the park serves as a symbolic venue for honoring both the historical struggles and ongoing achievements of marginalized communities.
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Hosting the Dayton Black Pride Festival at McIntosh Park is not just a celebration of LGBTQ+ pride but also a continuation of McIntosh's legacy of challenging systemic injustice. McIntosh, as a leader of the civil rights movement, advocated for equal rights and opportunities for African Americans in Dayton. His efforts paved the way for broader recognition of the importance of diversity and inclusion in all aspects of community life.
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By connecting McIntosh's legacy to the Dayton Black Pride Festival, we acknowledges the intersectionality of identities within the Black community, including those who identify as queer. McIntosh's advocacy for non-violent protest and equality resonates with the festival's mission to empower and uplift Black LGBTQ+ individuals, who have historically faced dual discrimination based on race and sexual orientation.
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McIntosh Park, therefore, becomes a symbolic and inclusive space where the struggles and triumphs of both Black people and Black queer people are recognized and celebrated. It embodies the our commitment to honoring diversity, promoting social justice, and fostering a community where all individuals are valued and respected.
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In essence, hosting the Dayton Black Pride Festival at McIntosh Park not only commemorates McIntosh's courageous efforts in advancing civil rights but also reaffirms the park's role as a place of unity, empowerment, and solidarity for all marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals of color.