A Message from the Trust about Current Events
June 5, 2020 - The events that have unfolded over the last week have been both heart wrenching and thought-provoking. The senseless loss of lives of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery and many others because of systemic racism and lack of accountability by authorities cannot be washed away as easily as the graffiti that defaced the Lincoln and WWII Memorials last weekend. We will restore these structures but the damage done by racism in every form is much harder to repair.
Long a symbolic place for the peaceful expression of First Amendment rights, the National Mall has fostered incredible moments in American history that advance the cause of justice, human rights and racial equity. The graffiti is in the process of being removed, but the more important action going forward is to be in a meaningful dialogue about these recent events, the history of social and racial injustices, and the voices who should be heard to inspire change. As the key advisor to Martin Luther King, Jr., Dr. Clarence B. Jones, said so well in his statement this week, “It is time to make good the promises of American democracy to all citizens – urban and rural, white and black, Spanish-surname, American Indian, and every minority group.” During his live virtual conversation on the topic Dr. Jones said, “We’re not there yet…and we should have arrived.” You can read his full remarks here.
The Trust will continue to fulfill our mission and what it stands for – to ensure that the National Mall is accessible to everyone, and fosters meaningful experiences and opportunities for expression. Eduard Krakhmalnikov, our new Director of Public Engagement Programs, said it so eloquently:
The National Mall is the nation’s civic stage, a canvas of expression where we tell the stories about the moments that changed our country forever. It is a destination for both commemoration and demonstration, of celebration and protest. The meaning of the National Mall is profoundly personal, every visitor takes their own lived realities with them and the National Mall – whether through individual reflection or the gathering of fellow citizens in protest – answers back. Each inch of the National Mall, as each inch of America, is filled with a thousand voices: the countless voices of the past and those striving to be heard today. To bear witness to these voices, to say I hear you, is to bear witness to America, to the strength of community and the sorrow of prejudice.
We are at a pivotal moment in America’s history. What comes next is up to us. A meaningful, soul-searching dialogue about power, privilege, and prejudice is taking place and we are all a part of it. The Trust for the National Mall stands proudly and in solidarity with the millions affected daily by racial inequity and injustice. We commit to honor and project these voices and to share these stories. Whomever you are, wherever you are, you are welcome on the National Mall. You belong here.
We welcome your thoughts and will continue to be in touch.
Stay safe and healthy.
Catherine Townsend
President & CEO