Leading Light

On Monday, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center unveiled a new statue dedicated to Harriet Tubman Theater.

Along with honoring Tubman’s legacy with the Underground Railroad, the event also celebrates the U.S. Mint’s 2024 release of the Harriet Tubman commemorative coin. Coins are now available in three denominations from the U.S. Mint and in the Freedom Store at museum. Surcharges from the sale of each coin will be equally split between the Freedom Center and The Harriet Tubman Home, supporting the mission of the organizations as they continue Tubman’s legacy.

The statue,The Beacon of Hope, is 11 feet tall and was created by Wofford Sculpture Studio in 2023. The artwork depicts the transformation of Tubman from her difficult origins to a symbol of freedom and an American icon.

On March 6, Karen V. Hill, president & CEO of The Harriet Tubman Home in Auburn, NY, will discuss the lesser-known history of freedom icon Harriet Tubmanh a combination of storytelling and mythbusting, Ms. Hill connects Tubman’s life to key issues that still resonate today. Following the discussion, she will take part in a meet-and-greet hosted by the Freedom Center Ambassadors.

The statue will remain on display at the Freedom Center through April.