During a recent government meeting, the Iowa City Council voted to name a new park at 1001 Shannon Drive as Adelaide Joy Rogers Park, honoring a significant figure in local history. The motion passed with a vote of 4 to 1, following a discussion that highlighted the importance of recognizing diverse civic leaders in the community.

Kevin Boyd, who proposed the name, emphasized the need for inclusivity in how the city honors its history. He noted that while many civic spaces reflect past leaders, they often do not represent the diversity of Iowa City today. Boyd shared the story of Adelaide Joy Rogers, who was a trailblazer for women's rights in the early 20th century. Rogers was notably on the ballot in 1921, shortly after women gained the right to vote, and she was an advocate for educational and recreational opportunities for women and girls.

Boyd detailed Rogers' contributions, including her role in establishing the YWCA at the University of Iowa, which aimed to provide women with athletic opportunities. He also mentioned her advocacy for equal educational opportunities in schools, highlighting her commitment to addressing gender disparities.

The council's decision to name the park after Rogers is seen as a step towards creating a more inclusive narrative within the community's public spaces. Boyd concluded by expressing hope that this recognition would inspire further efforts to honor diverse figures in Iowa City's history.