Yes, a David E. Walker, Sr. Court

Yes, a David E. Walker, Sr. Court

On Friday, July 19th at 11:00 am, David E. Walker Sr. was joined by his loving family, friends, and city officials in a ceremony at his home, on the corner of 63rd court and 66th street in which the city of South Miami officially named 63rd court after him. Commissioner Bob Welsh’s resolution for the street naming was unanimously approved by the rest of the city commission.

Representing the city was Mayor Phil Stoddard along with Commissioners Bob Welsh and Josh Lieberman.
But who is David Walker Sr.? The 60 year resident of South Miami and father of four (one adopted) is an Ordained Elder and serves in various capacities at the historic, St. John A.M.E. Church in South Miami. Elder Walker was instrumental in keeping the peace in South Miami during the racial tensions that occurred as a result of the verdict, which resulted in the McDuffie riots of 1980. Walker risked his life by placing himself between the police, who due to an isolated act of violence had their guns drawn, and black residents who were rightfully angry over the unjust verdict which cleared four white Miami-Dade police officers of murder. As a result of his heroism, Walker was awarded a commendation from the City of South Miami and the South Miami Police Department. This event was pivotal in the need for him to create the city’s Community Relations Board (CRB), which provided a direct and inclusive forum for dialogue between our city government and the community. This venue allowed for grievances to be aired by citizens and addressed by city officials, thereby avoiding tensions and distrust in government.

Also, David Walker Sr. served the city for 20 years in various capacities, including employment as a Code Enforcement Officer.

Adding to his list of accomplishments, Walker created the city’s first Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), which was the largest in Florida at the time. During the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Andrew, Walker served as the city’s representative in creating a CERT program in Homestead. Walker was also honored to participate in Atlanta as part of the city’s team that won the prestigious All America City award in 2001. As a member of the Community Action Agency Board, Elder Walker played an integral role in receiving county funds needed to build the city’s recreation center and community pool.

Former Mayor Horace Feliu and longtime friend of David Walker was also in attendance and offered his thoughts; “I have known David for many years and have witnessed that he has always been committed to the betterment of South Miami. Actions as we know, speak louder than words and David’s actions have improved the lives of many in our city. I am delighted that Commissioner Welsh thought of this well-deserved recognition not only to honor David but the entire Walker family.”

David Walker is the son of the late Lawton and beloved Birtha-Lee Walker who, aside from being pillars of South Miami in their own right, raised David E. Walker Sr. to serve God, family and his community.


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