Sixteen parks across the five boroughs were renamed Wednesday after African American leaders.

Mullaley Park and Recreation Center in Highbridge was renamed in honor of the Rev. Wendell Foster, the first African American city councilmember who represented the Bronx.

Neighbors called for the name change in 2020, saying John Mullaley was an agitator of the draft riots during the Civil War. They say that gave the park’s name a racist history.

A commitment was made to rename the park in November.

The Parks Department is hopeful that the move shows its willingness to stand with the Black community to combat racism.

Other parks throughout the city are being renamed after Black civil rights leaders, educators, writers and musicians.