“NC 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 carry lasting significance for the state, its history and culture, the North Carolina Freedom Park.
In 2002, 50 diverse community leaders from across the state 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 a 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 a thought-provoking and inspiring public space.
The centerpiece of the Park is the elegant Beacon of Freedom and the Park’s “message and meaning” is in the Voices of Freedom etched in stone walls along the five walkways.
The Park was completed in the summer of 2023 and was given to the state at a grand opening ceremony on Aug. 23, 2023.