In his introduction to a book on Freedom Monument Sculpture Park, Bryan Stevenson writes the following introduction:

“Freedom Monument Sculpture Park is an exploration of the institution of slavery that is centered on the lives of enslaved people… We began to think that if we had an outdoor space filled with great art that helps people understand both the brutality of slavery and the humanity of the enslaved, it would help us navigate the tragic history that leads up to this triumphant, extraordinary emancipation that represents so much more than we have acknowledged. Because there’s not much in the visual record of this era that conveys the humanity of Black people, we created one of the most significant narrative art collections in the world, with more than 50 sculptures by globally renowned artists who depict the humanity and dignity of people in the midst of brutality and violence.”

Key Questions:

• Study and reflect on the Park’s narrative of Indigenous history and works by Rose Simpson, Cliff Fragua, and Allen Houser. Choose one sculpture and reflect on its vision, technique, and humanity.
• Reflect on works honoring Africa by Theaster Gates, Joe Mutasa, Agnes Nyanhongo, Thaddeus Mosley, Rayvenn D’Clark, and Wangechi Mutu. Choose one sculpture and analyze its vision, technique, and humanity.
• Describe your thoughts and emotions as you entered a holding pen, rail car, and dwellings for enslaved people. Why are these experiences fundamental to the journey?

Additional Reflections:

• How do the Alabama River and railroad tracks contribute to the Park’s exploration of history and memory?
• At the Visitors Center, descendants of enslaved people can access genealogy resources.
• Why is the Monument designed as an open book with the inscription about honoring enslaved people’s strength and perseverance?
  

Curated by EJI Education Department