Our community is struggling with the morality of our nation’s history and the way that manifests in our culture today. John the Baptist is a symbolic figure for washing away sins and repenting. He also calls us, even today, to do better in our daily lives. That is just one of the reasons why we are petitioning for Beach Boulevard in Jacksonville, Florida to be renamed to John the Baptist Blvd.

We have renamed streets and highways to recognize other individuals for their contributions to our communities and country. It is time for John the Baptist to join the ranks of Martin Luther King Jr, John Turner Butler, General John Forsyth, William P. DuVal and A. Philip Randolph by having a prominent street renamed in his honor.

A History to be Proud Of

The conversations about removing statues and renaming schools has already begun in our community. If we are going to talk about renaming schools, streets and other prominent sites that feature names associated with racism and oppression, John the Baptist Boulevard should be considered as an option. John the Baptist publicly criticized the moral failings of a King. He spoke truth to power. Despite the danger, he maintained his values and stood as an honorable man no matter the cost. That is the example we should be setting for our community.

Sign the Jacksonville, FL Petition

Centuries ago, we understood the value of faith to our society and citizens. Religious freedom was a promise made by our founding fathers. It is time to demand a return to this value. Join us in petitioning for Beach Boulevard in Jacksonville, FL to be renamed to John the Baptist Blvd.