New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s profound admiration for Harriet Tubman has sparked an initiative to honor the 19th-century abolitionist by placing a statue of her in the prestigious U.S. Capitol.
The proposal to replace a statue of founding father Robert Livingston with Tubman’s marble likeness in the Capitol’s Statuary Hall has gained significant support from both the state Senate and Assembly.
Historic Significance of the Statue Swap
Statuary Hall currently houses 100 statues, with each state represented by two figures. If the plan to feature Tubman moves forward, it would mark the first alteration in New York’s representation since the installation of the likenesses of Livingston and George Clinton in the 1870s.
Gov. Hochul’s deep-rooted admiration for Tubman dates back to her childhood, as she shared with elementary school students her unwavering fascination with the courageous Union Army spy portrayed in her favorite book, ‘The Story of Harriet Tubman.’
Efforts to remove contentious statues from Statuary Hall have gained momentum in recent years, particularly those honoring Confederate figures. While legislation to ban such statues awaits Senate approval, instances like North Carolina’s replacement of segregationist Charles Brantley Aycock with Billy Graham showcase a shift towards more inclusive representation.
Commemorating Tubman’s Legacy
Gov. Hochul’s commitment to honoring Tubman extends beyond the Capitol proposal, with multiple visits to Tubman’s historic home in Auburn and symbolic gestures like renaming a state boat on the Erie Canal after her.
The allocated funds for a Tubman statue in Binghamton underscore the state’s dedication to commemorating Tubman’s legacy, emphasizing her pivotal role as one of the architects of the Underground Railroad.
While Livingston’s historical contributions are notable, his association with slave ownership has raised questions about his suitability for continued recognition. Hochul’s proposal to establish a commission for selecting a Tubman statue reflects a concerted effort to celebrate figures who have redefined American history.
Embracing Tubman’s Historical Significance
Senator Jamaal Bailey’s advocacy for establishing Harriet Tubman Day as a state holiday underscores the abolitionist’s universal appeal beyond racial boundaries. Recognizing Tubman’s contributions not only acknowledges her impact on Black history but also reaffirms her status as a symbol of resilience and freedom.
As discussions surrounding historical representation evolve, the proposal to immortalize Tubman’s legacy in the U.S. Capitol stands as a testament to her enduring influence on shaping the nation’s narrative.
