Allen Was Instrumental in the Creation of the Park Where the Plaque Will Be Displayed
The city of Santa Monica will host a ceremony on Saturday, Dec. 21, to unveil a plaque honoring Lloyd C. Allen, a trailblazing advocate, entrepreneur, and public servant whose contributions have shaped the community, the city announced.
The event will take place at 3 p.m. at Virginia Avenue Park, 2200 Virginia Ave., near the roundabout entrance by the Thelma Terry building. The public is invited to attend the free ceremony, which will feature remarks from Mayor Lana Negrete and Allen himself, who celebrated his 103rd birthday in August. Light refreshments will be served.
“I am thrilled to celebrate one of our most prominent community members, Lloyd C. Allen,” Mayor Negrete said in a release. “Mr. Allen’s legacy is seen and felt every day in Santa Monica, and it is truly an honor to acknowledge his decades of service and contributions to our community.”
The plaque honors Allen’s extensive contributions, including his role as Santa Monica’s first Black Recreation and Parks commissioner. Allen was instrumental in the creation of Virginia Avenue Park, where the plaque will be displayed.
The recognition follows a directive by the City Council in early 2024 to formally honor Allen’s legacy. In addition to his public service, Allen was a pioneering Black entrepreneur in the late 1950s, founding multiple businesses that enriched the local community. His ventures included Allen Maintenance, Allen Janitorial Supplies and Equipment, and Allen Vacuum Repairs, all based at 400 Pico Blvd.
“My commitment has always been to create spaces and opportunities where everyone, regardless of background, can come together, thrive, and feel a sense of belonging,” Allen said in a release.
