City of Compton honors legacy of Attorney Maxcy Dean Filer with installation of Maxcy D. Filer Square

The City of Compton hosted a heartfelt installation ceremony for Maxcy D. Filer Square on Saturday, January 24, 2026. The event celebrated the life and legacy of Attorney Maxcy Dean Filer, who passed away in 2011 after decades of service as a pioneering civil rights leader, longtime public servant, and community advocate. Community members, dignitaries, and supporters filled the space in a show of unity and respect for one of the city’s most influential figures.

Members of the Filer family participated in the program and shared moving reflections about his life, his character, and the enduring influence he had on Compton. His children, Duane L. Filer, Judge Kelvin D. Filer, Maxine Filer, Pastor Stephanie L. Hoxey, Attorney Anthony S. Filer, and Dennis Filer, spoke on behalf of the family and paid tribute to their father’s remarkable impact on generations of residents.

During the ceremony, the family witnessed the unveiling of the Maxcy D. Filer Square signage installed at the intersection of Arbutus Street and Matthisen Avenue. One sign stands in front of the Filer family home, with a second positioned directly across the street. To commemorate the occasion, the Filer family was also presented with a miniature replica of the sign.

“I hope when people are driving through and they see the sign, I hope they will think about the words on my father’s tombstone, ‘whatever goal you want, whatever your dream is, never ever give up,’” said Judge Kelvin D. Filer.

When Compton Mayor Emma Sharif spoke about Filer she said, "he gave me a lot of advice and a lot of knowledge as to what I should do while serving on the Compton Unified School Board."

She went on to say to the Filer family, "you shared your father with so many people and I will always be grateful for the wisdom he stored upon me."  

Compton Councilwoman Deidre M. Duhart remarked on Attorney Filer’s significance to the city, stating, “Maxcy D. Filer was more than a leader, he was the conscience of Compton. His lifelong commitment to justice, civil rights, and public service laid a foundation that continues to shape our city today. Naming this intersection in his honor ensures that future generations will know his story and be reminded that courageous perseverance and resilient determination can create lasting change.”

Adding to the moment, Congresswoman Maxine Waters attended the ceremony and shared her own personal reflections. She expressed gratitude for being invited and congratulated the City of Compton for continuing to honor families who care about one another. Congresswoman Waters spoke warmly about her history with Attorney Filer, recalling their work together within the NAACP and during civil rights actions including the historic March on Washington. She joked about his age and added with a smile that she would not repeat the number, as it might reveal her own. Laughter filled the air and added a light spirited moment to a day of reverence and pride.

Known affectionately as “Mr. Compton,” Attorney Filer dedicated his life to justice, equity, and community empowerment. His civic leadership began with his service as President of the Compton Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, where he championed voter registration drives, fought discriminatory housing practices, and represented Southern California at the historic 1963 March on Washington.

The ceremony served as a tribute to a distinguished leader whose influence helped shape the City of Compton. Attendees noted that Attorney Filer’s legacy continues to inspire and guide future generations, and the installation of Maxcy D. Filer Square ensures that his contributions will remain visible and celebrated for years to come.

Flyer: Maxcy D. Filer

Please watch the City's video from the event. 

(Maxcy D. Filer Square sign installed Saturday, January 24, 2026)

 (Compton City Council, Congresswoman Maxine Waters and the Filer family point to the sign)  

(Filer family sits in the front row for during the event)

(Audience members)

(Congresswoman Maxine Waters hands Maxine Filer a proclamation)

(Dennis Filer. Each Filer family member took home a mini replica of the Filer Square sign)