What if I told you that a street in France carries the name of a controversial American figure? That place is Rue Mumia Abu Jamal. It’s found in the Paris suburb of Saint-Denis. This street is more than just an address. It’s a symbol of international solidarity and a lightning rod for controversy.
Rue Mumia Abu Jamal was named on April 29, 2006. The city of Saint-Denis chose to honor Mumia Abu-Jamal. He was a U.S. political prisoner. At the time, he was on death row in Pennsylvania.
Mumia Abu-Jamal’s story is complex. Born Wesley Cook, he became involved with the Black Panther Party at a young age. Later, he became a radio journalist in Philadelphia. In 1981, he was convicted of murdering police officer Daniel Faulkner. His trial and conviction have been the subject of intense debate.
The decision to name a street after Mumia Abu-Jamal in Saint-Denis was not without opposition. The Philadelphia Fraternal Order of Police led efforts to remove the street sign. They were backed by U.S. media and politicians. Despite these efforts, the Rue Mumia Abu Jamal remains.
Saint-Denis has a history of honoring figures who fought against colonialism and racism. Other streets are named after Amílcar Cabral and Nelson Mandela. Naming a street after someone still living is rare. The mayor of Saint-Denis, Dedier Paillard, stated that this street helps the city take a stand for liberation.
In 2003, Paris had already named Abu-Jamal an honorary citizen. He shares this honor with Pablo Picasso. Rue Mumia Abu Jamal connects with Human Rights Square. It lies in the Cristino Garcia neighborhood. Garcia was an anti-fascist during the Spanish Civil War. The street is close to Nelson Mandela Stadium.
The tenth anniversary of Rue Mumia Abu Jamal was celebrated in 2016. City officials and residents gathered at the street sign. Representatives from other French cities also attended. A delegation from the U.S. joined the ceremonies.
The U.S. delegation included Mumia Abu-Jamal’s brother, Keith Cook. Reverend Renee McKenzie also attended. Estela Vazquez represented Local 1199-SEIU. Marylin Zuñiga also came. She was fired for having her students send get-well cards to Mumia. Betsey Piette and Johnnie Stevens were part of the delegation. Alma Pendleton and Nyle Fort also participated. Suzanne Ross coordinated the delegation.
Saint-Denis is a diverse city. Many residents are immigrants. The mayor noted that the city hears echoes of struggles worldwide. Naming the street was an act of resistance and struggle. The street symbolizes international solidarity. It also highlights the ongoing fight for justice. The goal is to ultimately free Mumia Abu-Jamal from prison.