Parren Mitchell: Honoring Maryland's Trailblazing First Black Congressman

Keiffer Mitchell Jr. fondly recalls his late uncle, Rep. Parren J. Mitchell, who frequently arrived late to family dinners during the holidays. “We’d ask, ‘Uncle Parren, where were you?’” remarked Keiffer, emphasizing his uncle’s commitment to those in correctional facilities. This memory surfaced during a Thursday dedication ceremony for a memorial honoring Parren Mitchell, Maryland's first African American congressman and a trailblazer in many respects. Despite rain, hundreds gathered at the Pip Moyer Recreation Center in Annapolis to pay tribute to Mitchell's remarkable legacy. The memorial featured poignant images from his life. Born in Baltimore and a World War II veteran, he became a champion for minority businesses and secured crucial legislative wins. “His legacy endures,” remarked Del. Jheanelle Wilkins, reinforcing Mitchell's lasting influence.