Carbondale honors Kenneth Kent Mason and Elbert Simon with honorary street naming

Carbondale City Council has taken a significant step towards honoring two prominent community figures, Kenneth Kent Mason and Elbert Simon Sr., by approving honorary street naming resolutions during their July 8, 2025, meeting. The council's decision reflects a deep appreciation for the contributions these individuals made to the community, particularly in the African American community.

Kenneth Kent Mason, a beloved barber and community leader, was recognized for his 61 years of service, touching countless lives in Carbondale. The proposal to name a section of Oak Street in his honor received overwhelming support from residents, highlighting the importance of his legacy. Community member Jermaine Pryor emphasized the significance of this recognition, particularly for Oak Street, which has been home to Arnett's Barber Shop for 80 years, one of the longest-standing Black-owned businesses in the United States.

Elbert Simon Sr. was also honored, with community members expressing gratitude for the recognition of his contributions. However, some residents raised concerns about the trend of naming streets after African American figures primarily in the East Side of Carbondale. Albert Simon II, son of Elbert Simon, questioned whether this practice reflects a broader issue of visibility and recognition for African American heroes throughout the city. He urged the council to consider naming streets beyond the East Side to foster awareness of the rich history of Carbondale.

The honorary naming will not change the official street names, which has been a point of clarification for many residents. The council confirmed that the honorary designations will serve as signs to honor these individuals without altering existing addresses, thus avoiding confusion among residents.

In addition to the honorary naming, there were discussions about creating a scholarship in Kenneth Mason's name to support young people pursuing careers in barbering or related fields. This initiative aims to continue Mason's legacy of community service and mentorship.

The meeting also highlighted the need for further community engagement regarding street naming practices. Several residents suggested public hearings to gather input from those living in the Northeast Side, ensuring that the voices of the community are heard in future decisions.

As Carbondale moves forward with these honorary recognitions, the council's actions reflect a commitment to honoring local history and fostering a sense of community pride. The discussions surrounding these resolutions indicate a desire for inclusivity and recognition of all community members, paving the way for future initiatives that celebrate the diverse history of Carbondale.