The country’s newest national monument honors a community’s fight for racial justice

Today, the Biden administration designated the Springfield 1908 Race Riot National Monument in the capital of Illinois using the Antiquities Act during the 116th commemoration of one of the country’s worst examples of mass racial violence.

In response to the designation, Jamie Williams, President of The Wilderness Society, said: 

“National monuments help tell and preserve stories that represent the full history of our country, and we commend the Biden-Harris administration for commemorating the Springfield 1908 Race Riot as such. It’s important that the administration heeded the call from community members and elected leaders about their vision to federally recognize this painful and tragic event that eventually was one of the catalysts to the formation of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). This watershed moment led to a movement that ensured that equality and justice were the values that prevailed from this sad chapter in our nation’s history. This story and people who inspired the movement should be honored and protected for future generations.”

The Springfield 1908 Race Riot National Monument serves as a poignant reminder of the racial tensions and injustices that plagued the country during that period. One hundred sixteen years ago, a racist mob attacked and burned down the homes and businesses of Black residents of Springfield and lynched two Black men. By designating it as a national monument, the Biden-Harris administration demonstrates its commitment to promoting racial equality, acknowledging past injustice, and fostering learning and healing.  

For more information: FACT SHEET: President Biden Designates Springfield 1908 Race Riot National Monument

CONTACT:
Gaby Diaz
Communications, The Wilderness Society
gaby_diaz@tws.org / 720.464.1941