5th Avenue & Broadway | Gary, IN 46402
The Legacy of Gary's own...
On August 27, 2017, I made a very special trip to Gary, Indiana—a place that’s more than just a city on the map for me. It’s where music royalty was born. I was there to celebrate what would’ve been Michael Jackson’s birthday, right at the legendary address: 2300 Jackson Street. Somehow I regretably missed previous years of the celebrations, but was determined to go this time.
Every year, fans from all over the world gather in front of the modest childhood home of the Jackson family to honor the King of Pop. But let me tell you, it’s more than a tribute—it’s a full-on mini street party! The atmosphere was electric. There was music blaring, dancing in the street, laughter, love, and fans decked out in MJ gear from head to toe. Entertainment and vendors lined the block, and the Jackson Fan Club was onsite with all kinds of memorabilia and souvenirs. You name it—it was there. The spirit of celebration was alive and thriving.
That year felt extra special for me on a personal level. I had recently become friends with Keith Jackson, one of the first cousins of the iconic Jackson family. When I told him I was coming to town, he and his brother Ron Jackson welcomed me with open arms, just like family. They didn’t know it then (well, maybe they suspected), but I’ve always claimed the Jacksons as my family in my heart. My friends used to call me “crazy” for it, but I didn’t care—they were family in my head and soul. LOL!
Keith was extra kind and took it up a notch and surprised me with a little tour just a short drive from the Jackson home. That’s when I saw something I’ll never forget: the Jackson 5 mural in downtown Gary. Talk about a WHOA moment! I nearly cried when I saw it! We each took a photo in front of it and looked at it to really see the scale, outstanding!
The Artist Behind the Mural
Located at the corner of 5th Avenue & Broadway, Gary, IN 46402, the mural stood as a towering tribute to the Jackson legacy. It was painted in 2016 by the incredibly gifted Felix “Flex” Maldonado Jr., a celebrated artist known for his large-scale murals and passion for community storytelling.
The four-story masterpiece featured Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael, beautifully rendered that reflected both their spirit and global influence. This mural didn’t just brighten the side of a building—it breathed life into downtown Gary and stood as a symbol of pride, perseverance, and the incredible talent that came from this city.
A Return in 2019 – One More Look
I was so moved by that experience in 2017 that I made it a point to return to Gary again in 2019—just to see the mural one more time. While it showed some signs of wear, it still carried the same powerful energy and joy it had the first time. Standing in front of it again reminded me why I loved the Jacksons so much, and why their story—rooted in humble beginnings—is so deeply inspirational. It was like visiting an old friend. It may have faded a bit, but the pride in that wall? Still shining bright.
A Moment I’ll Never Forget
To have seen the mural not just once, but twice, was a real blessing. Even Janet Jackson herself visited it during the filming of her documentary, her first time seeing it, became emotional with tears, showing just how meaningful it was—not only to fans but to the family, too.
Special thanks to my dear friend Keith for making that original 2017 visit unforgettable. Being welcomed like family by someone from the family I always adored… that’s a memory I’ll treasure for a lifetime.
Update: A Heartbreaking Loss
In November 2020, the building that housed the Jackson 5 mural was demolished 🥹. A crushing blow to fans and the city alike. Though the wall is gone, its impact remains. It brought beauty, pride, and light to a city that gave the world something extraordinary.
I truly hope the City of Gary finds a permanent way to honor the Jackson family’s legacy. That mural wasn’t just paint on bricks—it was a love letter to the roots of greatness.
