The African Burial Ground National Monument: Honoring New York’s African Heritage

The African Burial Ground National Monument in Lower Manhattan is a poignant reminder of New York’s deep African American history. Discovered in 1991 during construction, this site was once home to one of the largest and oldest urban African cemeteries in North America, with over 15,000 free and enslaved Africans buried there from the 17th to 18th centuries.

The monument includes a visitor center with exhibits that explore the lives of these individuals, their contributions to the city, and the struggle for freedom. A memorial with a circular wall and mosaic of faces pays tribute to those buried, offering a place for reflection and remembrance.

The discovery and preservation of this site have sparked conversations about race, history, and recognition, leading to educational programs, community engagement, and discussions on how New York commemorates its diverse past. The monument stands as a testament to the resilience and cultural impact of African Americans in shaping New York.

The African Burial Ground is not merely a historical site but a place of reverence, education, and acknowledgment of the African diaspora’s enduring legacy in one of the world’s most influential cities.