“The North Carolina Freedom Park tells the story of slavery and freedom…tragedy and triumph, suffering and compassion, sadness and joy.” - John Hope Franklin
Story of the Park
For nearly a quarter of a century North Carolinians across the state worked together, overcoming numerous obstacles, to develop a project that would have lasting significance for the state, its history and its culture. That project became The North Carolina Freedom Park.
In 2002, 50 diverse community leaders from across North Carolina gathered to create a plan to honor the African American experience in the state. This gathering was followed by a series of town meetings to solicit ideas, a statewide conference to build enthusiasm and the formation of a nonprofit to support the creation of this tribute to freedom.
The selection of world-renowned architect Phil Freelon and his inspiring design to have the park, “reflect the untold and forgotten African American contributions to the understanding of freedom,” as well as the selection of Holt Brothers Construction Company were essential in creating this thought-provoking and inspiring public space.
The centerpiece of the Park is the elegant Beacon of Freedom. The Park’s message and meaning is delivered through the Voices of Freedom etched into the stone walls along the five walkways.
The Park was completed in the summer of 2023 and celebrated its grand opening with a ceremony on Aug. 23, 2023.