Fred Gray Honored with Statue at Alabama State Bar

Civil rights attorney Fred Gray, renowned for representing figures such as Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, Claudette Colvin, and John Lewis, was honored with a statue outside the Alabama State Bar Association in Montgomery. The tribute recognizes Gray's pivotal legal work during the Civil Rights Movement, including his role in landmark cases that contributed to major advances like the Voting Rights Act. At the unveiling, Gray acknowledged not only his own career but also the many lesser-known clients and 'unknown heroes' who were crucial to the movement’s success. The statue, sculpted by Steven Whyte, depicts Gray seated with a file folder, symbolizing his lifelong dedication to justice and advocacy. Gray, who was the first Black president of the Alabama Bar Association, emphasized the power of legal service in fighting injustice. The monument stands as both a recognition of his seven-decade career and as inspiration for future advocates.