Maurilia Ortiz Blakely was a role model, a champion for minority women’s rights, an activist for the poor and an advocate for higher education. She is best known for helping to organize Grand Rapids’ first Mexican Festival in 1970.
Learn about how we honored Blakely's life and legacy by beautifying a formerly lifeless and nameless alleyway off Fulton St., which is now designated "Maurilia Ortiz Blakely Way."
For more information about the Women's Way Alley Activation Initiative that celebrates local trailblazing women, visit WomensWayGR.org. #DowntownGR #WomensWayGR
