By: Terry Whitt Bailey—
Muncie, IN—Recognizing the end of Black History Month and the beginning of Women’s History Month, Mayor Dennis Tyler and City Council Member Julius Anderson (District 6) honored Emma Price and Marilyn Carey at the city’s community forum last week.
This was the sixth year that Councilman Anderson partnered with local churches and neighborhood associations to host the community forum which allowed Muncie residents to have a better understanding of who to contact with specific questions and concerns. Councilman Anderson said, “My goal has always been to make this an annual event to allow the public and the administration to come together and discuss matters that affect them. This has been very successful over the years, and last week’s event was a highlight because we were able to honor two women who are so well-respected in this great community.”
The following churches hosted the 2018 meetings:
- Urban Light Church (Andrew Draper, Pastor)
- Bethel Missionary Baptist Church (Larry McCoy, Pastor)
- New Testament Christian Ministries (Clifford Clemons, Pastor)
- Midtown Church of Christ (Willie Parham, Pastor)
Mrs. Price began her work in 1949 as an early resident of Munsyana Homes. She has continued to live in the area (Millennium Place) working as an advocate for public housing and serving a current board member for the Muncie Housing Authority. Known throughout Muncie as the “Mayor of Millennium Place,” Mrs. Price has stood up to bullies, drug dealers and families in need.
Mrs. Carey has spent her entire adult life educating children in Muncie, serving for many years as a librarian at Muncie Central High School. Mrs. Carey also served on many boards, including the Muncie Community School Board, and currently serves on the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Dream Team, where she presents a special award in honor of her late husband, former Mayor James Carey.
Both women have received numerous awards and recognition for their selfless efforts and leadership in the Muncie community.
“These two women are pillars in our community, and I couldn’t think of a better way to culminate Black History Month and commence Women’s History Month than with Emma and Marilyn. Their commitment to the people of Muncie is unmatched. I’m proud to call them both my friends.”
The four community forums were well-attended this year and gave Muncie residents an opportunity to participate in discussions pertaining to housing, neighborhood revitalization, safety, animal control, schools, streets, human rights, code enforcement and parks.
