Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (IA-01) introduced the bipartisan National Liberty Memorial Preservation Act alongside Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Chris Murphy (D-CN), and Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ). This bipartisan, bicameral legislation would extend authorization of the National Liberty Memorial monument that commemorates enslaved and Black Americans who fought in the U.S. Revolutionary War. The authorization would allow a nonprofit to continue construction of this memorial near the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
“Many Black Americans bravely fought in the Revolutionary War. Their stories should be told, and their contributions should be honored. I am proud to help lead the bipartisan effort in Congress to build the National Liberty Memorial to pay tribute to these patriots and commemorate their sacrifices,” said Congresswoman Hinson.
“As Americans, our understanding of history has a tremendous impact on our sense of who we are and where we’re headed. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of the significant contribution that enslaved and free African Americans played in the American Revolution,” said Senator Grassley. “It’s past time we dedicate a memorial to those brave men who volunteered to serve. This monument will be a tangible reminder that, despite the lingering legacy of slavery, the promise of liberty and equality is the shared heritage of all Americans.”
“Thousands of enslaved people and freedmen served in the Revolutionary War, risking their lives for a country that did not recognize them as full citizens. The National Liberty Memorial will commemorate the bravery, distinction, and patriotism of African American soldiers during the American Revolution and ensure that future generations of Americans can honor their sacrifice,” said Senator Murphy.
“We would not be the country we are today if not for the valiant sacrifices of the free and enslaved Black soldiers who fought for American independence,” said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. “My bill would honor the Black soldiers who are far too often erased from the narrative surrounding our nation’s founding. Black people built this country in more ways than one, and the National Liberty Memorial will help tell their story.”
