Centuries later, slaves are honored for erecting the Capitol Building

[babylonsister]

Centuries later, slaves are honored for erecting the Capitol Building

By Reid Davenport | McClatchy Newspapers


WASHINGTON — Even though George Washington laid the ceremonial first brick of the U.S. Capitol, the people that did most of the dangerous, back-breaking construction under the hot sun of the Potomac weren't considered full citizens. In fact, they weren't considered full people.

For about 220 years, the fact that enslaved African-Americans built the U.S. Capitol is rarely mentioned and never recognized. Until now.

The leaders of both parties of the Senate and the House of Representatives gathered on Wednesday to unveil a plaque honoring the slaves who helped build the U.S. Capitol.

"In the words of President Lincoln: 'We cannot escape history,'" said the Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi. "And with this plaque, we embrace history. We celebrate it."

Long time civil rights activist U.S. Rep. John Lewis (D-GA) was the head of the task force designated to recognize these slaves. He said the plaques would "shed light on a long-hidden truth" and give these African-Americans the recognition they deserve.

After centuries in existence, including when both the White House and Capitol were burned by the British in the War of 1812, the plaque is the first to formally recognize the contributions of slaves in the construction of much of Washington's historic landmarks.

more...

http://www.mcclatchydc.com/2010/06/16/96022/centuries-later-slaves-are-honored.html