"I Am Ali" Festival Kicks Off This Weekend
Muhammad Ali Center to host six weeks of exhibits, festivals, concerts and films
LOUISVILLE, KY (June 6, 2016) – Muhammad Ali was a global icon and a true citizen of the world. But he was first and always a citizen of Louisville, where he was born and raised.
Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer today announced two local efforts to honor Ali’s local legacy.
To aid the thousands of visitors flowing into the city this week, Louisville Metro Government has launched a special website devoted to Ali’s life in the River City. The site, alilouisville.com, includes information about Ali’s childhood, his early boxing career, his humanitarian efforts, landmarks associated with Ali, and details about the many local events surrounding this week of tribute to Ali.
Wednesday’s I Am Ali Festival is meant to celebrate Ali’s life journey and fierce determination as an example to all children that no matter the circumstances, they can be the greatest at anything they choose.
The Festival will be held in the lobby of the Kentucky Center for the Arts, 501 W. Main St., on Wednesday, June 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“From Grand Avenue to across the globe, Muhammad Ali overcame economic hardship and racial and religious discrimination to become The Greatest,” said Fischer. “Louisville’s children – all our children – need opportunities that will give them the confidence to become the greatest at whatever they choose to be. Wednesday’s I Am Ali Festival will provide another demonstration of our city-wide support for Louisville’s youth.”
Jefferson County Public Schools, the Kentucky Science Center, Louisville Zoo, Louisville Free Public Library and other local arts and education organizations will provide booths and entertainment. There will also be a wall where children can write what they want to be the greatest in, as well as arts and education activities.
Musician Jecorey “1200” Arthur will coordinate local entertainment on a music stage.
Festival-goers also will be encouraged to visit the nearby Muhammad Ali Center, which is offering free admission this week. (A $5 donation is suggested.)
More about the website: Created by the Mayor’s Communications Office, alilouisville.com will remain online after this week as a resource on the life and legacy of Muhammad Ali.
Visitors to alilouisville.com can join the conversation by sharing personal tributes to Ali, as well as stories and photos.
“The world is coming to Louisville this week to celebrate the life of our most famous citizen,” Fischer said. “We want to make sure that people know the complete story of Ali’s life here, where he learned the values that helped him become ‘The Greatest of All Time.’”