Black History & Performing Arts mural to be unveiled Sunday

It’s time for the unveiling of a new mural in downtown Joplin.

The Joplin Downtown Black History & Performing Arts Mural will be officially unveiled in a ceremony from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. near the intersection of 1st and Main Streets in Joplin.

The mural pays tribute to Black performing artists and others who either came from the city or performed in Joplin over the years.

The mural depicts Jazz musician Charles McPherson and 10 additional Black artists and activists who left their mark on Joplin over the years.

Others depicted include composer and pianist Scott Joplin; jazz composer and pianist Duke Ellington; singer Ella Fitzgerald; jazz musician Dizzy Gillespie; poet/writer Langston Hughes; singer and performer Cab Calloway, opera singer and civil rights activist Marian Anderson; singer Melissa F. Cuther; singer Mamie Smith and entertainer Sammy Davis, Jr.