LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Ten years after his death, Louisville is honoring hometown legend Muhammad Ali by celebrating the values he championed outside the ring.
Many Louisvillians still remember the moment in June 2016 when thousands lined city streets as Ali’s funeral procession passed through Louisville, honoring "The Greatest" in the city he called home.
While Ali became a global icon through boxing, his widow, Lonnie Ali, hopes people also remember his compassion and commitment to helping others.
"Muhammad was a very compassionate individual," Lonnie Ali said. "That’s the way he treated people — he showed up every day with kindness and empathy in his heart."
Wednesday marks 10 years since Ali’s death. To honor his legacy, the Muhammad Ali Center will host a Day of Compassion event Wednesday morning before volunteers head out for service projects across Louisville.
The Day of Compassion is part of Ali Fest, a weeklong celebration of Ali’s legacy that continues with community events, including a free Ali Fest Carnival at the Muhammad Ali Center on Sunday.
Organizers say the events are designed to celebrate not just Ali’s legacy in sports, but the impact he made on Louisville through service, compassion and community.
To learn more about Ali Fest, click here.
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