Gov. Spanberger joins officials for African Landing commemorative ceremony

HAMPTON, Va. (WAVY) — A new sculpture was unveiled at the African Landing Memorial during the National Ceremony of Remembrance and Renewal in Fort Monroe. The ceremony honors the site where the first recorded Africans were brought to North America in 1619. It was part of African Landing Commemoration Week, an annual observance at Fort Monroe centered on remembrance, history, culture and community. This year's ceremony also served as a signature event of Virginia's commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the nation. Inspired by the first African family and child, the newly installed sculpture by sculptor Brian R. Owens is an interpretative representation informed by historical research and consultation. The sculpture also honors the broader community of Africans brought to the site near Point Comfort aboard the White Lion. In attendance was Gov. Abigail Spanberger, members of her Cabinet — including Secretary of Commerce and Trade Carrie Chenery, Secretary of Education Jeffery Smith, Secretary of Health and Human Resources Marvin Figueroa, Secretary of Labor Jessica Looman, and Secretary of Natural and Historic Resources David Bulova, as well as Chief Diversity Officer Dr. Sesha Joi Moon and Chief Energy Officer Josephus Allmond. The Governor was also joined by Congressman Bobby Scott, Senator Mamie Locke, Delegate Virgil Thornton, and state and local leaders from across the Commonwealth. 'This is a commemoration and a memorial to us all. In Virginia, we share this history,' said Governor Abigail Spanberger. 'Virginia will care for this sacred ground. Virginia will tell its story honestly. Virginia will protect it, sustain it, and make sure its honor is secured for every generation that comes after us — not just today, but for as long as this memorial stands.'