Sara J. González Memorial Park, located at 2411 Coronet Way at Bolton Road in Atlanta’s Westside, is a unique and culturally significant park. It’s the first park in Georgia named after a Latino/a/x/e individual, specifically honoring Sara J. González, a prominent advocate for Hispanic, minority, and immigrant rights in the South. The park reflects González’s values of inclusiveness, cultural diversity, family, and community.
The park features various amenities and installations that promote diversity and accessibility. Key features include ADA-compliant wheelchair access, an all-abilities playground, a children’s soccer field, and the first Learning Nook in an Atlanta park, offering a covered education area. Additionally, the park houses the “Unity Plaza,” which celebrates Atlanta’s diverse population and hosts regular community events.
Another notable feature is the Officer Edgar Flores Memorial Learning Garden, dedicated to the memory of the first Latino police officer killed in the line of duty in Atlanta. This garden serves as a Latin ethnobotanical learning space, created with support from the University of Georgia.
The park’s development has involved significant community engagement and support, including grants and collaborations with various organizations and individuals. It serves as a vibrant community hub, hosting educational programs like “Sprouting Readers,” and offering a welcoming space for all ages and cultures.