Raleigh
Aug 4, 2016
Last February, Governor Pat McCrory announced a set of public hearings to plan a new monument on the State Capitol grounds in Raleigh dedicated to commemorating the achievements of African Americans. "I can't think of a more appropriate way to recognize the contributions of African Americans to North Carolina's history than a monument at the State Capitol," he said at the time. "I encourage North Carolinians to actively participate in dialogue about key considerations and thematic elements for this important monument."
Over the course of eight Tuesday evenings in March, April and May, the public responded to the call. At programs in Greensboro, Charlotte, Rocky Mount, Fayetteville, Winston-Salem, Asheville, Wilmington and Raleigh; Natural and Cultural Resources Secretary Susan Kluttz welcomed attendees and expressed her gratitude for their efforts. "Thanks to Gov. Pat McCrory, the members of the African American Heritage Commission and the North Carolina Historical Commission for their leadership on this historic project," said Kluttz. "Most importantly, I want to thank the public who took the time to give us their valuable input on this historic monument to be erected to recognize the achievements of African Americans toward this great state."
Secretary Kluttz was joined by members of the North Carolina Historical Commission and the North Carolina African American Heritage Commission listened and participated in the exchange of ideas. Additional comments were received by email phone and mail. The responses have been summarized in an interim report available online at https://www.ncdcr.gov/state-capitol-african-american-memorial-committee-report.
The public is invited to view the report and provide additional feedback through Sept. 12. On September 14 at 10 a.m., members of the commissions will meet in the State Capitol to amend and endorse or reject the interim report. The public is invited. "This work is important for all North Carolinians and the final monument will be one that we all can be proud of," said Dr. Valerie Ann Johnson, chair of the N.C. African American Heritage Commission and member of the N.C. Historical Commission.
Individuals or groups wishing to voice opinions or support the new monument are invited to contact the Deputy Secretary of Natural and Cultural Resources Kevin Cherry at 4610 MSC, Raleigh, N.C. 27699-4610. Phone inquiries are welcomed at (919) 807-7290.