Flatbush pol proposes street co-naming for Muhammad Ali

Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee.

Councilmember Jumaane Williams honored the memory and legacy of the late Muhammad Ali on Monday, June 13 by announcing plans to co-name Flatbush Junction (where Flatbush and Nostrand Avenues meet) “Muhammad Ali Triangle.”

Williams noted that Ali, who died earlier this month at the age of 74, was a pivotal figure of peace and acceptance.

“In life, Muhammad Ali stood by his convictions even though he wasn’t always well liked because of it,” said Williams. “Now the world lifts him up and offers him praise for the very same reason. He symbolized much more than a championship fighter; he embodied the spirit and perseverance of a true warrior.”

“The co-naming of the Junction to Muhammad Ali Triangle is an exciting prospect that has the potential to attract tourism to the Flatbush Nostrand Junction, and offer our local businesses significant growth opportunities,” noted Kenneth Mbonu, executive director of Flatbush Nostrand Junction Business Improvement District. “Muhammad Ali connected with people of diverse cultures, just as the Junction serves as a transportation and shopping hub connecting the diverse Flatbush community.”

“There will never be another force like him,” Williams added. “Co-namings are specifically enacted to honor individuals who have made indelible contributions to our city and to serve as a teaching tool to future generations about the impact these persons made during their lifetime. I can think of no one whose life story meets that criteria more than the man universally acknowledged as the Greatest- Muhammad Ali.”