NEWS RELEASE: Ceremonial Street Sub-Renaming Honors Community Champion Mercedes M. Fields

Thursday, May 16, 2024

Ceremonial Street Sub-Renaming Honors Community Champion Mercedes M. Fields
The 200 Block of N. Madison Street has been designated as Mercedes M. Fields Way in her honor.

Wilmington, DE – The community came together on May 15 to celebrate the legacy of a remarkable community leader, Mercedes M. Fields, through the ceremonial sub-renaming of the 200 Block of N. Madison Street as Mercedes M. Fields Way in Wilmington, Delaware. The event brought together local officials, community members, and the friends and family of Fields to commemorate her invaluable contributions to our city.

An elder who passed away in 2020 at the age of 79, Fields dedicated her life to making a difference in people’s lives. She was more than just a resident; she was a beacon of hope, a tireless advocate, and a catalyst for positive change. With a commitment to social justice, a passion for community service, and an unwavering dedication to uplifting others, she has left an indelible mark on the City.

Portrait of Mercedes M. Fields courtesy of 5th District Wilmington City Councilwoman Bregetta A. Fields.

“She was more than a social worker; she was a guardian angel to many,” said Bregetta A. Fields, daughter of Mercedes M. Fields and 5th District City Council Member of Wilmington. “Her impact transcended boundaries, reaching every corner of our neighborhood.”

Originally from Louisiana, Mercedes M. Fields moved to Wilmington in the 1950s, where she witnessed first-hand the challenges her new neighborhood faced. She worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life in West Center City despite disinvestment and urban unrest.

“She was a pillar of strength and compassion to everyone,” said Councilwoman Bregetta Fields. “She was a mom, an auntie, a grandma, and a community activist who served as a beacon of hope, touching countless lives through her work at the William “Hicks” Anderson Community Center.”

For decades at the William “Hicks” Anderson Community Center Mercedes M. Fields served as a social worker, outreach worker, and community liaison where she remained steadfast in her mission to empower her neighborhood. She helped others by providing food, clothing, or a listening ear.

Mercedes M. Fields (left) supports her daughter Bregetta A. Fields (right) as she files to run for 5th District City Council Member of Wilmington, DE. Photo courtesy of Bregetta A. Fields.

The sub-renaming of the 200 Block of N. Madison Street to Mercedes M. Fields Way serves as a lasting tribute to her remarkable legacy and the unforgettable mark she left on West Center City. As members of the community walk and drive through the newly named street, all will be reminded of her selflessness, her compassion, and her vision for a more inclusive and equitable community.

On May 15, the Mercedes M. Fields Way street sign was installed on the 200 Block of N. Madison Street in Wilmington, DE. Photo by Yesenia Taveras, director of communications for Wilmington City Council.

During the ceremony, speakers reflected on Mercedes M. Fields’ profound impact, sharing personal anecdotes and highlighting her many achievements. From her efforts to improve access to food and education to her advocacy for the homeless and affordable housing, Mercedes M. Fields touched the lives of countless individuals and inspired generations to come.

5th District City Councilwoman Bregetta A. Fields (right) speaks at the Ceremonial Street Sub-Renaming of Mercedes M. Fields Way on May 15. Photo by Yesenia Taveras, director of communications for Wilmington City Council.

In addition to the unveiling of the street sign, the event featured a light lunch at the William “Hicks” Anderson Community Center, where community members shared their memories of Mercedes M. Fields. The day was filled with joy, remembrance, and celebration as everyone celebrated a true community hero.

Wilmington City Council Members and local officials are pictured with 5th District City Councilwoman Bregetta A. Fields (center) and her family at the ceremonial street sub-renaming of Mercedes M. Fields Way on May 15. Photo by Yesenia Taveras, director of communications for Wilmington City Council.

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MEDIA INQUIRIES:
Yesenia Taveras
Director of Communications, Wilmington City Council
Office: (302)576-2585
Email: ytaveras@wilmingtonde.gov
City Council Website: www.wilmingtoncitycouncil.com