The Equal Justice Initiative, a nonprofit organization dedicated to criminal justice reform, recently unveiled its National Monument to Freedom on June 19, 2024, at the newly established Freedom Monument Sculpture Park in Montgomery, Alabama. This monumental structure, standing four stories tall, is adorned with 122,000 surnames that were chosen by formerly enslaved individuals themselves, as recorded in the 1870 Census following the end of the Civil War. These surnames symbolize the more than 4 million enslaved individuals who gained their freedom after emancipation.
During the dedication ceremony, which coincided with Juneteenth, a holiday commemorating the end of slavery, Equal Justice Initiative founder Bryan Stevenson emphasized the resilience and strength exhibited by enslaved people throughout history. He highlighted their remarkable ability to resist and persevere in the face of unimaginable adversity, underscoring the importance of acknowledging and celebrating their enduring legacy.
Juneteenth, observed on June 19, 1865, marked the day when enslaved individuals in Galveston, Texas, learned of their freedom following the conclusion of the Civil War. Despite the challenges and hardships they endured, Stevenson emphasized the unwavering spirit and unyielding desire for freedom that characterized the enslaved population, urging attendees to reflect on the dignity and fortitude displayed by these individuals.
The National Monument to Freedom serves as a poignant tribute to those who suffered under the yoke of slavery, offering a solemn reminder of the atrocities of the past while also honoring the resilience and courage of those who triumphed over adversity. The monument’s inscription of 122,000 surnames serves as a powerful testament to the countless lives impacted by slavery and the enduring legacy of those who fought for freedom.
In addition to the National Monument to Freedom, the Freedom Monument Sculpture Park in Montgomery, Alabama, features a collection of art and historical artifacts that chronicle the experiences of enslaved individuals in the United States. This site, established by the Equal Justice Initiative, aims to provide a comprehensive and truthful account of America’s history of slavery, inviting visitors to engage with the stories of those who were once enslaved.
As visitors explore the park and view the names inscribed on the monument, such as the Williams family searching for their ancestor’s surname, Murdough, they are reminded of the individual stories and familial connections that lie behind each name. The presence of slave cabins from an Alabama plantation further underscores the profound impact of slavery on generations of families, evoking a mix of emotions ranging from heartache to inspiration.
The creation of the Freedom Monument Sculpture Park represents a pivotal step in confronting the painful legacy of slavery and acknowledging the enduring strength and resilience of those who endured its horrors. By commemorating Juneteenth and honoring the sacrifices of the past, this monument stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human soul and serves as a beacon of hope for a more just and equitable future.