07/25/2026
Behind every ribbon cutting is a story, and the story of Freedom Tree Park is one of vision, perseverance, and a community coming together to make something special happen.
What a special and humbling experience this morning as Missouri City leaders held a ribbon cutting to officially celebrate the opening of Freedom Tree Park, the newest addition to the city my family and I proudly call home.
I was honored and pleasantly surprised when my former Missouri City Council colleague, Councilmember Floyd Emery, invited me to share a few remarks about the journey that brought this project to life.
More than eight years ago, Councilmember Emery approached me about the possibility of using Park Zone funding from my district to help move the project forward because he knew how important of enhancing the historic Freedom Tree was—even though the park was outside my council district.
Together, we met with then-Mayor Allen Owen and advocated for the creation of the Freedom Tree Park Advisory Committee. Our goal was simple: develop a vision that would preserve the history and educational significance of the Freedom Tree while creating a beautiful recreational space for families and future generations.
I also reflected on a promise I made to my predecessor, the late Councilmember Don Smith, who was passionate about seeing Freedom Tree Park become a reality. Before he passed, I assured him I would do everything I could to help make that vision happen.
Projects like this are never the result of one person. They require years of collaboration, persistence, community support, and leadership from many people. Thanks to the citizens who approved bond funding, my former City Council colleagues, dedicated City staff, community stakeholders, and countless advocates, that vision has now become a reality.
A special thank you to U.S. Congressman Al Green, who was on the program, and recalled helping us overcome a significant obstacle by working with Phillips 66 to secure the donation of an abandoned easement—an important step that made the park we see today possible.
Also, the breathtaking artwork designed by local artist Anthony Suber added another powerful layer to the park’s story. His explanation, today, of the vision behind the piece, inspired by the Underground Railroad and the journey toward freedom, was both moving and deeply meaningful.
Thank you, Mayor Robin Elackatt, the Missouri City Council, and city staff for your leadership and commitment to ensuring this important project was completed and received the recognition and attention it deserved today.
Freedom Tree Park is more than a beautiful new park. It is a place that honors the formerly enslaved people of African descent, and preserves an important part of Missouri City’s history, while creating opportunities for recreation, education, and community connection.
I encourage everyone to visit the historic Freedom Tree, learn its story, and enjoy this incredible new community asset. It is a wonderful addition to Missouri City and a reminder of what can be accomplished when a community works together toward a shared vision.