Monday, February 3, 2025
Arthur Archie Johnson, Cedric Paul Huntley (posthumously) and Shane Alvin Lee will be Inducted in the 22nd Annual Hall of Fame
Mayor Brett P. Smiley will today join members of the Providence City Council, Providence Human Relations Commissioners and Providence community members for a celebration of Black History Month and to induct Arthur Archie Johnson, Cedric Paul Huntley (posthumously) and Shane Alvin Lee into the City’s Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Hall of Fame. The 22nd annual induction ceremony will be held today, Monday, February 3, 2025, at 5:30 PM in the City Council Chambers.
“I’m honored to recognize the incredible contributions of these three community leaders for their dedication to justice, equality and community service,” said Mayor Brett Smiley. “Their efforts have made Providence a more inclusive and welcoming city. By upholding the values Dr. King championed, their legacies continue to inspire future generations and strengthen our community. We are proud to honor them today and remain committed to building a more just and equitable city for all.”
Inductees were nominated by members of the public, with PHRC sending recommendations to Mayor Smiley, who then selected the candidates based on their contributions to social justice, civil rights and equality. The ceremony will also feature performances by Music One, the Mixed Magic Exult Choir, Wilsyn Rose Caraballo, Tiny Miss North East, and a reading by Joe Wilson Jr., Director of Providence’s Arts, Culture and Tourism Department.
“The strength of our city has always been in the people who step up, speak out, and fight for what’s right,” said Councilwoman Althea Graves (Ward 12). “These three honorees have given so much to our community, and I’m proud to recognize their contributions. After the ceremony, we are hosting meaningful conversations about Black history in Providence and beyond — not just reflecting on the past but carrying that legacy forward in the work we do today. I look forward to it.”
Arthur “Archie” Johnson also known as “The Community Guy” is a proud lifelong Rhode Islander born in Providence, who has devoted his life to empowering underserved communities across the state. Known for his commitment to social equity, Archie is the founder of Teen Connect RI, a transformative teen program, and co-founder of the annual Cultural Fest RI. As an associate at BAMI Farm in Johnston, he supports a collective of Black and Brown farmers, fostering sustainable agriculture and economic opportunity. His latest endeavor, the Rosa Parks Resource Center, located on Prairie Avenue in South Providence, offers vital resources and support to residents of surrounding neighborhoods. A dedicated family man with a passion for improving lives, Archie selflessly channels his energy into creating lasting change and advancing equity in Rhode Island’s most vulnerable communities.
Cedric Paul Huntley “Mr. Ced” was a tireless community advocate and mentor, dedicated his life to uplifting others through education and service. Born in Lafayette, Louisiana, Cedric moved to Providence, Rhode Island, where his impact would resonate deeply. A standout basketball player at LaSalle Academy, he discovered his passion for mentoring youth in 1976, sparking a lifelong commitment to his community. With degrees from Rhode Island Junior College (now CCRI) and Cambridge College, Cedric’s career included roles in public service, small business ownership, and youth advocacy. Most notably, his leadership as Executive Director of the Nonviolence Institute (NVI) cemented his legacy as a champion for peace and social justice, expanding vital programs to break cycles of violence and provide support to affected communities. Cedric’s influence extended far beyond his professional roles, serving on numerous boards and building bridges between diverse stakeholders. Known for his love, patience, and humility, Cedric left a lasting impact on the lives he touched, the programs he developed, and the community he strengthened.
Shane Alvin Lee is the Director of Training & Special Projects at the Nonviolence Institute and a lifelong resident of Providence, RI, with a deep understanding of the challenges facing his community, including poverty and violence. A graduate of CCRI and current College Unbound student pursuing a degree in organizational change and leadership, Shane also holds a Level 3 certification in Kingian Nonviolence from the University of Rhode Island, earned under the mentorship of Rev. Dr. Bernard Lafayette Jr., a renowned civil rights leader. Shane has trained and consulted with diverse audiences across the non-profit, medical, law enforcement, education, and corporate sectors both nationally and internationally. A man of faith and service, he was ordained as a reverend and served as an executive pastor. He currently sits on the board of The Avenue Concept, a public arts organization in Providence. A proud husband, father of five, and singer-songwriter, Shane is dedicated to empowering communities and creating sustainable change through art, education, and economic development.