The Baker Hughes Foundation has announced a $100,000 grant to support the Emancipation Park Conservancy (EPC). The funds will support the conservancy’s mission to preserve the park’s integrity and enrich its heritage as a local, state, national and international landmark. This announcement marks the third consecutive year Baker Hughes has supported EPC through charitable giving, and the grant is part of a broader commitment by Baker Hughes to participate in community programs, volunteerism and engagement with the organization.
Emancipation Park, established in 1872 in Houston’s Third Ward, is the oldest public park in Texas. Purchased by a group of African-American community leaders for one of the nation’s original Juneteenth celebrations, it was donated to the city of Houston in 1916 and remained the only public park open to Black residents for more than 20 years. Now, it is home to a variety of events, programs and services available to the community such as the annual Juneteenth Celebration, financial literacy classes, youth STEAM programs, and Emancipation Conversations that cover a variety of topics that affect African Americans in Houston and beyond.
This announcement with EPC aligns with Baker Hughes Foundation’s mission to promote education, environment and health and safety in the communities where the company operates. The grant was announced during EPC’s annual Juneteenth celebration event attended by Baker Hughes leadership, team members, family and friends.
“As a long-standing and leading company in Houston, Baker Hughes wants to give back and support the organizations making our community a better place to live and work,” said Lorenzo Simonelli, chairman and CEO of Baker Hughes. “The company is donating resources to Emancipation Park Conservancy because of its historical significance and, importantly, how it is helping build a more inclusive city and a better world. Baker Hughes is proud to attend this milestone ceremony, and we are proud to be a part of the ceremony’s activities.”
“Emancipation Park Conservancy is delighted to partner with The Baker Hughes Foundation, and we appreciate the generous financial contribution, time and talent,” said Dr. Muhammad Abdur-Rashid, interim executive director of Emancipation Park Conservancy. “A partnership like this is vital, as the pair continue the mission to support the Third Ward and Houston community with services, resources and programs during these unprecedented times.”
Courtesy of Baker Hughes.