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New York Co-Names Lower East Side Block ‘Jack Kirby Way’

The honor signals wider recognition of comics creators after a sustained grassroots push.

Overview

  • A green street sign now marks Essex Street between Delancey and Rivington as Jack Kirby Way on the block where the artist was born.
  • Hundreds attended the dedication, with fans in superhero costumes and Kirby’s grandchildren Jillian, Tracy and Jeremy present.
  • Pop culture historian Roy Schwartz led the campaign, and Councilmember Christopher Marte steered it through City Council with help from staffer Max Deutsch.
  • Columbia librarian Karen Green and the American Jewish Historical Society backed the effort, and a free Center for Jewish History exhibit runs through November 30.
  • Kirby, born Jacob Kurtzberg, co-created many Marvel icons, and this public tribute follows years of family advocacy that won on-screen credits and royalties.