In Memory of Jacqueline Gillon
Advocate - Leader - Legacy
In the Fall of 2022, as a part of the ongoing celebration of Jacqueline (Jacquie) E. Gillon’s contribution to Cleveland, the Black Environmental Leaders Association (BEL) in collaboration with the Western Reserve Land Conservancy, Henry’s Cleaners and the Gillon Family commissioned a Legacy Mural in her honor.
Award winning artist Antwoine Washington has captured the true essence of Jacquie’s smile in the design of a Legacy Mural featuring a line from a poem authored by Jacquie.
The mural is located on the East facing wall of Henry’s Cleaners (11601 Kinsman Road in Cleveland Ohio), and overlooks a beautiful green space she helped to create.
Join us for the Jacqueline E. Gillon Legacy Mural Dedication on Monday, October 24, 2022 at 10am.
Jacqueline Gillon, co-founder and co-facilitator of the Black Environmental Leaders Association, passed away on August 24th, 2021. Jacqueline was a passionate advocate for racial and environmental justice who left a profound impact on her family, neighbors, colleagues and friends.
During her career, Jacqueline served her community as a member of East Cleveland City Council, the Western Reserve Land Conservancy’s Thriving Communities program and as a beloved trainer and mentor to 29 classes of leaders at Neighborhood Leadership Institute.
Jacqueline genuinely cared for people and the environment around them. Her distinct ability to welcome and affirm persons of all backgrounds, ages and abilities, made her leadership unique and invaluable.
Jacqueline was loved by all and will be greatly missed. The impact she made on the world will never be forgotten. Several efforts are underway to celebrate her life and impact. Please check back for current updates and information. In the interim, donations can be made to the following organizations that were dear to Jacqueline’s heart:
Black Environmental Leaders (BEL) Association