Andrew J. Brown’s Legacy in Indianapolis: Community, Education, and MLK Day

Each year on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, communities across the country reflect on the ongoing work of justice, opportunity, and collective responsibility. While Dr. King’s leadership shaped a national movement, progress has always depended on local leaders who organize communities, build relationships, and turn vision into action.

In Indianapolis, Reverend Andrew J. Brown was one of those leaders.

His legacy is rooted in community advocacy, collaboration, and the belief that meaningful change happens when people come together. Today, that legacy is carried forward through Andrew J. Brown Academy (AJB), where education, community connection, and opportunity intersect.

Andrew J. Brown and the Power of Community

Brown’s work centered on people.
Families. Neighborhoods. Institutions.
All of them are working together to create opportunity, lift one another, and find joy in community.

At a time when access to housing, education, and opportunity was limited for many Black Hoosiers, Brown helped mobilize community voices and advocate for change. Like Dr. King, he understood that progress requires sustained effort and collective action. His leadership strengthened pathways to opportunity in Indianapolis and reinforced the importance of community-centered solutions, values that continue to guide local efforts today.

Building Community Through IBE

Andrew J. Brown extended his commitment to community through institutional advocacy with the Indiana Black Expo (IBE), helping amplify Black voices, connect leaders, and create lasting opportunities for families.

Marilyn Goree, Vice Chairperson for the Central Region of the Indiana Black Expo (IBE) Board of Directors, reflected on Brown’s lasting impact:

“Andrew J. Brown’s leadership mattered because he built power that lasted beyond his lifetime. He inspired generations to organize, advocate, and lift the community, proving that true progress is measured not just in victories, but in the leaders and movements you leave behind.”

A Living Legacy: Andrew J. Brown Academy

Brown's values are not only remembered but also practiced at Andrew J. Brown Academy (AJB), a school serving families on Indianapolis’ east side. Students are introduced to Andrew J. Brown’s legacy during new family orientation, and the school reinforces it through AJB Trivia Night, held bi-monthly during school community meetings. These traditions teach students about the school’s rich history and inspire them to carry forward its values of leadership and service.

The school understands that education does not exist in isolation from community needs. More than a school, AJB serves as a community hub, reflecting its namesake’s belief that learning and community go hand in hand.

AJB continues Brown’s legacy through partnerships that address real needs and strengthen community trust. In collaboration with Sunflowers Bundles of Joy Foundation, the school hosted a turkey giveaway to support families in time for Thanksgiving, an especially meaningful effort in a neighborhood facing food insecurity. AJB also partnered with the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, distributing more than 500 toys to families in need during the holiday season.

“In order to build trust and relationships with our community, we need to fill their needs," said Garret Gammons, School Director at AJB. “Our number one need is making sure academic gaps are closed. But another thing is making sure needs are met. That’s food, that’s shelter, that’s comfort."

Beyond the gifts, these initiatives create moments of joy, belonging, and shared humanity, reminders of what is possible when communities come together.

Continuing the Legacy: Join Us for the Black Heritage Festival

Education remains one of the most powerful tools for advancement. By centering strong relationships, access to resources, and student empowerment, Andrew J. Brown Academy continues the civil rights work its namesake championed, ensuring opportunity is not limited by zip code. Honoring Andrew J. Brown’s legacy—and the broader work of leaders like Dr. King— means moving from reflection to action. It means creating space for learning, celebration, and collective engagement.

That commitment continues at Andrew J. Brown Academy’s Black Heritage Festival, themed “A Century of Black History Commemorations.” The event marks the centennial of the first Negro History Week, established by Dr. Carter G. Woodson in 1926, and invites the community to reflect on how the study and celebration of Black history has shaped progress in the modern world.

Join us:

Saturday, February 28
11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
4501 E. 32nd Street, Indianapolis

The event will include:

• A panel conversation exploring Black history and its impact today

• Student project showcases highlighting youth voice and leadership

• A talent show, vendor exhibitions, and community festival activities

As we honor the past and invest in the future, we invite the Indianapolis community to join us in celebrating a century of Black history and the work still ahead.