Washington: When Muhammad Ali died five years ago, his name was known worldwide. But it was home, to Louisville, Kentucky, where he returned.
From his death on June 3, 2016, to his funeral a week later, the Bluegrass community that raised him joined visitors from around the globe to celebrate the life and legacy of “The Greatest.” That week is the focus of the new documentary, “City of Ali.” Running at just under an hour and a half, “City of Ali” shows the way Ali’s hometown united during his death.
“He was always so excited to go back to Louisville and to see his people, because that’s where it all started,” recalled Ali’s daughter, Rasheda Ali.
Rasheda who participated in the documentary, says learning of the events surrounding that week was special to her because it was during her “darkest hour.” “My dad stood for inclusion, my dad stood for racial equality, for peace and love,” said Rasheda Ali.
As one of the highest profile conscientious objectors and someone who spoke out against racial inequality, Ali remains a symbol of resistance and strength to many in Louisville.