Today, as part of Black History Month, Representatives Jerrold Nadler, Charlie Rangel, and Gregory Meeks re-introduced legislation to establish the African Burial Ground International Memorial Museum and Educational Center in Lower Manhattan.  The proposed site, near City Hall, is located within the African Burial Ground National Historic Landmark, an area in Lower Manhattan that holds the remains of an estimated 20,000 enslaved Africans and early-generation African-Americans from the colonial era.  Seven years ago today, the site was officially designated a National Monument.

“The African Burial Ground is a site of the utmost historic and cultural significance for New York City and the United States,” said Nadler.  “On that site lie the remains of thousands of early African residents of New York, providing a powerful reminder of the central role that African-Americans played in building New York City.  A Memorial Museum and Educational Center on those grounds will provide a means of paying respects to the thousands buried there, and will educate Americans and others about slavery’s profound impact on our society.”

“Thanks to the efforts of Rep. Nadler and Rep. Meeks, we move one step closer to one day having a place where all Americans can come and learn about those whose blood, sweat and tears helped create not just this city, but this entire nation.” said Rangel.  “By establishing this museum and educational center in such an international gateway like New York, we help ensure that this global story of injustice, sacrifice and eventual triumph is no longer hidden nor forgotten.”

“I would like to commend Congressman Nadler for re-introducing this legislation that will establish the African Burial Ground and Center in one of the most historic districts in the city of New York,” said Meeks.  “Through the establishment of this burial ground and center, Americans will have the opportunity to enhance their knowledge of the history of enslavement and African ancestry.  African Americans have made significant contributions in building some of New York’s and our nation’s vital infrastructure, and this bill will create a fitting memorial to their work.  I look forward to visiting the memorial museum and education center once it is open.”

The African Burial Ground National Historic Landmark has been called one of the most significant archaeological finds in U.S. history, and contains well-preserved DNA samples that offer scientists a unique glimpse into the past.  The Museum and Educational Center will be managed by the National Park Service in consultation with the African Burial Ground Advisory Council, which will be comprised of representatives of federal, state and local government and organizations that are committed to the legacy of the African Burial Ground.

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