Adam Walker Photos
Annie Louise Boyd at Sunday’s corner renaming.
The new name for the corner of Congress and West.
Annie Louise Boyd spent decades fighting for justice, uplifting her neighbors, and transforming New Haven through service and advocacy.
On Sunday afternoon, neighbors, city officials, friends, and family gathered to ensure her legacy endures, renaming the corner of Congress Avenue and West Street as “Annie Louise Boyd Corner“ in recognition of her life’s work.
The street naming was formally approved by the New Haven Board of Alders on Dec 2, 2024. The proposal, initially submitted by Hill Alder Evelyn Rodriguez in July 2024, called for designating the northwest corner of Congress Avenue and West Street in recognition of Boyd’s service to the Hill neighborhood and the city.
Boyd, a mother of nine and a lifelong resident of the Hill, was celebrated not only for what she accomplished, but for the spirit with which she did it. From her early activism in the 1960s with the New Haven chapter of the Black Panther Party to decades of leadership in housing, education, and social justice, Boyd’s dedication has left a lasting mark on the city.
“She wasn’t looking for a sign on a street — she was looking to make lives better,” said Pastor Chip Anderson during the ceremony’s opening prayer on Sunday. “We thank you for putting that in her heart.”
The celebration began as Boyd emerged in a wheelchair, smiling and waving to the crowd while “Ain’t No Stopping Us Now” played. Her son, Howard Boyd, introduced her and reminded everyone that this was her day — a day to celebrate and respect a woman who loved each and every person gathered. The crowd followed behind her, fists raised, as they marched together toward the corner that now bears her name.
Once assembled, speakers reflected on Boyd’s lifelong contributions. Allison Dodge, representing U.S. Rep. Rosa DeLauro’s office, praised Boyd’s commitment.
“It was that leadership, commitment and dedication to your community that has made you a hero in the Hill,” Dodge said.
Tomas Reyes, Jr., former president of the Board of Alders, spoke about Boyd’s role in helping the community around her. State Rep. Juan Candelaria reflected on her decades of work in affordable housing and neighborhood development. Her eldest grandchild, Natalie Boyd, shared the history of her grandmother’s life and the values that shaped her enduring legacy.
Throughout her career, Boyd served in numerous leadership roles, including as chair of Project MORE, president of the Hill Development Corporation and National Housing Group, site manager of West Street Housing Association, and member of the New Haven Democratic Town Committee. She also contributed to the Hill North Management Team and Mayor Toni Harp’s community relations task force focused on justice and equity.
The ceremony’s high point came as the crowd counted down and Boyd pulled the rope to unveil the new street sign, greeted by cheers and applause. Alder Rodriguez, joined by Alders Angel Hubbard and Troy Streater, presented the official Board of Alders citation.
It honored Boyd as “a symbol of compassion, service, empowerment, and leadership,” recognizing her as a devoted mother of nine and a pioneer of the Hill who uplifted generations through advocacy for youth, education, and justice.
The citation praised her decades of activism and service and concluded, “Today we honor not just what you’ve done, but who you are. Your legacy will continue to inspire future generations.”
The event ended with blessings, and attendees were welcomed in small groups into Boyd’s home to personally share their thanks — a fitting close to a day honoring a woman whose presence shaped a community.
Boyd embraces attendees.
Alders Hubbard, Rodriguez, and Streater address the crowd.
