Maryland Abolitionists Hold Places of Honor at the State House
A powerful, permanent honor for two abolitionist heroes is now on display in the Maryland State House in Annapolis.
Bronze statues of Harriet Tubman and Frederick Douglass now stand in the Old House of Delegates chamber.
An open house and full day of events celebrating the unveiling will be held Saturday, February 15 at the Maryland State House from 10am to 3pm.
Ken Morris Jr., great-great-grandson of Douglass, speaks on history, human rights and the “power of one.” A living history portrayal of Tubman will be presented by Millicent Sparks.
The Extensions of Faith Praise Choir will perform live gospel music and light refreshments will be served. The National Parks Service will offer junior ranger hands-on activities.
Following presentations, there will be a panel discussion featuring the presenters — including Tubman descendant Tina Wyatt.
Born into slavery in Maryland, Tubman escaped and assisted fugitive slaves using the Underground Railroad, a network of antislavery activists and safe houses. She also served as a scout and spy for the Union Army and was an activist for women’s suffrage.
Douglass was a social reformer, writer and statesman. After escaping slavery in Maryland, he became a national leader of the abolitionist movement and a highly respected orator.
The installation of the statues — created by StudioEIS in New York —was initially proposed by former Maryland Senate President Thomas V. “Mike” Miller Jr. (D-Calvert) and the late House Speaker Michael E. Busch (D-Anne Arundel) in 2016 and was approved by the Maryland Board of Public Works just over a year ago.
There is no RSVP required to attend the celebration on Saturday. Photo ID is required for those over 18.