The Memorial to Enslaved Laborers in Charlottesville, VA is a powerful testament to the history and contributions of the enslaved individuals who built and maintained the University of Virginia. This student-led initiative, which began in 2010, aims to acknowledge and honor the more than 4,000 individuals who played a vital role in the construction and operation of the university. Through this memorial, the university is confronting its past, uncovering new knowledge, and using that knowledge to shape a more inclusive and equitable future.
The memorial serves as a reminder of the skilled labor and resilience of the enslaved men, women, and children who lived and worked on the university grounds for over four decades. It recognizes their dignity, resistance against oppression, and aspirations for freedom. The memorial invites visitors to explore and engage with the history it represents, providing a tangible connection to the past and a catalyst for reflection and dialogue about the ongoing impact of slavery in America.
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