"Montgomery Alabama had Rosa Parks, but Newark NJ had Ms. Wilhelmina Holder. LONG LIVE Ms. Holder" -Mr. Larry Hamm, People's Organization for Progress
By: Richard L. Smith
In a heartfelt and joyous ceremony, the corner of 14th Avenue and Hayes Street in Newark now proudly bears the name of a true community hero, an agent of change, and someone who meant so much to many, Ms. Wilhelmina Holder.
She was my inspiration and role model as well.
This remarkable event took place on a warm Wednesday afternoon outside Newark's Central Ward library, which was fittingly attended by about 70 residents, along with The Honorable Newark City Council President LaMonica McIver and Councilwoman Louise Scott-Rountree.
NAACP President Ms. Debra Smith Gregory, Councilmen Crump, and Patrick Council were also on hand as speakers and witnesses of the occasion.
It wasn't just any day; it was Ms. Holder's birthday, a day that added an extra layer of significance to the celebration. The atmosphere was filled with gratitude, admiration, and a deep sense of community unity for this section of Newark's Central Ward.
Ms. Holder, known affectionately by her grandson Yanir King as the community's 'generational curse breaker' and a devoted servant to Newark's children, left a profound impact that touched the lives of many.
She lifted the spirits of so many by constantly reminding them that situations that haunt them are destined to change.
I was one of those people Ms. Holder reminded me that brighter days would come from dark days.
Her dedication to the betterment of her community was unmatched.
Yesterday's ceremony had all the qualifications set for a tribute fit for a queen, which was well deserved considering her extraordinary contributions.
Holder's legacy encompasses a long list of accomplishments. One of her remarkable achievements was her TV show 'Village Drum.' In 2007, while acting as Public Access television Coordinator for Cablevision, I trained Ms. Holder for six weeks on producing, directing, and technically operating the television studios.
Ms. Holder took my Television Production Broadcast Course in Cablevision's Public Access Department to create her show. Through 'Village Drum,' she hosted and produced over 50 productions, using her platform to speak to educational leaders in New Jersey.
The show was co-produced by Mr. Michael Matthews.
She advocated tirelessly for proper funding for Newark's children through this form of media.
As a true champion for education, Ms. Holder's impact extended to Newark's Central Ward Library. In collaboration with her close friend and confidant, Mr. Lyndon Brown, she dedicated herself to helping hundreds of high school seniors secure millions of dollars in financial aid through workshops and financial literacy sessions.
For over three decades, she provided crucial SAT preparation skills to these students, ensuring their success. Ms. Holder's and Mr. Brown's college/higher education prep seminars and college placement opportunities were always a hit.
But her impact wasn't confined to individuals; she was a driving force behind enacting change on a larger scale.
Her involvement in the Newark Secondary Parent Council and her unyielding determination led to significant changes in Newark Public Schools.
Through her relentless efforts, she played a pivotal role in returning state-controlled Newark Public Schools back to local control. This resulted in some improved funding for education.
At the celebratory event, Mr. Larry Hamm, the People's Organization for Progress leader, delivered a powerful and inspiring speech. He lauded Ms. Holder's accomplishments and her unparalleled dedication to the community.
"We honor Ms. Holder because she was not just an ordinary person but extraordinary. She fought tooth and nail for our kids," Hamm passionately declared.
Mr. Hamm confidently envisioned more honors for Ms. Holder as the ceremony continued. "Today, it's her name on the corner of 14th Avenue and Hayes Street. In the future, I expect Ms. Holder's name to appear on schools and other public buildings. She was just that important to this fight for educational freedom that our kids needed," he proclaimed.
Born and raised in Newark, Ms. Holder's commitment to education was evident throughout her life. She graduated from Weequahic High School in 1969 and continued her education with certifications from prestigious universities such as Harvard, Columbia, and Chicago.
Her determination to learn and grow knew no bounds.
Even while working as a corporate bankruptcy specialist at Riker Danzig Law Firm, Ms. Holder's heart remained devoted to her community. She was a faithful member of Metropolitan Baptist Church and dedicated her life to the welfare of every child and parent in Newark.
Although she tragically passed away in April 2022, her legacy continues through The Wilhelmina Holder Student Assistance Emergency Fund, created in her honor.
This fund assists Newark residents enrolled in post-secondary programs with unexpected costs that financial aid may not cover. Already distributing over $6000, this fund embodies Ms. Holder's spirit of striving for greatness through education. Click HERE to donate to the fund.
As the sun set on the corner of 14th Avenue and Hayes Street, the legacy of Wilhelmina Holder illuminated the hearts of those present.
Her commitment, compassion, and unyielding dedication to Newark's children will continue to inspire generations to come.
I will miss and always love Ms. Wilhelmina Holder. When I drive down 14th Avenue approaching Hayes Street, I am reminded of this terrific 'freedom fighter' for excellence in education.
