Story at a glance
- The state introduced two life-sized statues of Harriet Tubman and Frederick Douglass in the halls of the capitol.
- Both abolitionists were born in Maryland.
- This move comes amid a lingering question of the appropriateness of Confederate monuments.
The halls of the Maryland State House in Annapolis gained two new permanent residents last night: statues of abolitionists Harriet Tubman and Frederick Douglass.
Both figures were unveiled Monday night in a celebration in Annapolis. ABC News reports that they were dedicated to the state capitol before a special joint session of the Maryland General Assembly in the Old House Chamber, the room where slavery was officially abolished in Maryland in 1864.
The arrival of the statues coincides with the historic appointment of Adrienne Jones, the first black female house speaker in Maryland state government. They are also commissioned at a pivotal time in the year; February is Black History Month, which celebrates the achievements and legacy of the black and African American community in the U.S.
Jones delivered opening remarks at the ceremony, stating, “A mark of true greatness is shining light on a system of oppression and having the courage to change it. The statues are a reminder that our laws aren’t always right or just. But there’s always room for improvement.”
The Associated Press notes that both Tubman and Douglass were native Marylanders, born on the Eastern Shore. Tubman was known for saving the lives of dozens of slaves through a hidden trail called the Underground Railroad. Douglass was a prominent author, activist and speaker whose autobiography was widely circulated. Both escaped from slavery.
This news emerges as neighboring states like Virginia and North Carolina wrestle with the decision to take down monuments of Confederate soldiers. Some believe that it is an homage to racial injustice and division, while others say it is an important piece of history.
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