New Orleans has gained a powerful ancestor.⁠ ⁠ Baba Jerome “Big Duck” Smith spent his life fighting for the freedom, dignity, and future of Black children in New Orleans. As a Freedom Rider and outspoken civil rights leader, he carried that fight home and poured it into generations of young people.⁠ ⁠ He co-founded Tambourine & Fan, where children learned things like Black history, New Orleans culture, and self-empowerment. When the construction of the Claiborne overpass took away a space where children could safely play, he fought for Hunter’s Field. ⁠ ⁠ He understood that our children deserve more and are worth fighting for. Well the babies must have felt his energy, because he earned the name “Big Duck” based on how often children followed behind him like ducklings.⁠ ⁠ At LCCR, we share his belief in the value and possibility of every child in this city. We thank you, Baba Duck, for a lifetime of service and love for New Orleans and our children.⁠ ⁠ Rest in power.⁠ ⁠ #nola #bigduck ...