October 19, 2005
Good Morning.
To the family, children and friends of Vivian Malone Jones.
Today I come as Mayor of Atlanta because Vivian Malone Jones lived her life challenging the stereotypes, defying the odds and shattering the glass ceiling.
Opening the doors for educational, business leadership and government service for me and millions of others.
Vivian Malone Jones lived her life in the tradition of Phyllis Wheatley, Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, Ida B Wells, Madame C J Walker, Mary McCloud Bethune and Dorothy Height.
Like our Sheroes…never bending or running from the challenges of the day. Always inventing, creating a new way and leaning on God’s strength to uplift our people with courage, determination, vision and longing for a better world.
Vivian Malone Jones held up her half of the sky that others might benefit from her work.
A mere 42 years ago by nearly two centuries after the founding of our nation, Vivian entered the annals of American history as a patriot; one willing to sacrifice her life for her country and for her people.
When, by walking through the doors of the University of Alabama she opened the doors of higher education for thousands of African American men and women and people of color. She held up her half of the sky.
By taking this one critical step she inspired young men and women around the nation, myself included, to stand up for ourselves, our sisters and brothers and our rights to full participation in America’s dream.
In her own words, she declared, “I had a responsibility to myself, my family and my people. She declared herself a black woman on a mission, defying the odds, challenging the stereotypes and shattering the glass ceiling.
Vivian thrived in college and in life despite the obstacles, the hateful actions of others and the doubts of many.
Her public service started as a student and continued throughout her professional career. She set clear and obvious standards of performing with grace under fire and commitment to public good over self.
Known to many as a courageous civil rights pioneer, Vivian also leaves a legacy as a loving parent, a patient friend and a thoughtful civic leader.
Vivian was a woman graced with talent, commitment and courage.
Her life made a difference in the freedoms we enjoy in America today and directly expanded the longings and aspirations for millions of young men and especially young women here and abroad.
Her legacy lives and will thrive as she lived, because her story will be told over the ages.
Vivian was a woman of courage and conviction.
In the words of Mari Evans…
“Tall as a cypress
stand,
beyond all definition,
defying place,
and time,
and circumstance,
assailed,
impervious,
indestructible.”
We remember and honor Vivian Malone Jones and we are “renewed!”
Throughout her life, she built our confidence, our pride, our self love and our love of race.
Thank you Vivian.
We honor Vivian Malone Jones and we are renewed.