News & Politics

A new battleground

Veterans of the armed forces’ segregated past fight to keep their legacy alive.

by Mariah Karson April 4, 2019August 18, 2021

James A. Reynolds Jr. Credit: Mariah Karson

James A. Reynolds Jr. Credit: Mariah Karson

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Montford Point Marine Association

Members gather for a group photo after the January monthly meeting. Credit: Mariah Karson

Members gather and join hands in prayer both before and after each member meeting. OR MPMA’s January monthly meeting began and closed with a prayer, with members bowing their heads and holding hands in a room with a leaky drop ceiling, 1980s mirrored wall, and single-space heater. Credit: Mariah Karson

MPMA’s veterans center is in desperate need of a new roof and a new HVAC system, among other repairs. Credit: Mariah Karson

Memorabilia and photos line the hallway and showcase the history of MPMA’s members and community service. Credit: Mariah Karson

Veteran pride – and humor – are prevalent at the bar. This member’s jacket patch reads “When I die bury me face down so the whole world can kiss my ass!” Credit: Mariah Karson

The actual hours of the bar are Tuesday and Thursday 7pm – 12am, Friday 4pm – 12am. Saturday and Sunday are open for private parties or during the football season so members can gather. Credit: Mariah Karson

MPMA President Sharon Stokes-Parry, Vice President Paul Knox Jr., and House Manager Arthur “Ham” Bingham gather for drinks and laughs after a monthly member’s meeting. Credit: Mariah Karson

Most of Harry Reid’s accessories and wardrobe have military flare, including his cane and U.S. Army ring. Credit: Mariah Karson

MPMA Manager Ron Martin wanted to enlist in college at Roosevelt University but after being rejected because the school had already reached their quota of black students he joined the Marine Corps. After his service Martin was the first black regional union director and an organizer for AFL-CIO. Credit: Mariah Karson

Harry Reid blows me a kiss and thanks me for my support of MPMA and the veteran community. Credit: Mariah Karson

Harry Reid’s regular seat at the bar. In the background is a photo taken by David Obermeyer, a local photographer and sound recording specialist who joined Karson on a documentation visit and continues to patronize the bar on Friday nights and visit with members. Credit: David Obermeyer

Members, friends, and family gather for a surprise birthday party on Friday, March 22, 2019. Credit: Mariah Karson

The Montford Point Marine Association’s Chicago Chapter 2 Hall building on 7011 S. Vincennes Credit: Mariah Karson

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