Built on Their Backs: Deets On The Role of Enslaved Labor in the Construction of America's Foundational Structures
Deets On The 13th Amendment
Built on Their Backs: Deets On The Role of Enslaved Labor in the Construction of America's Foundational Structures
![](https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ff57b832b-d573-4c50-b834-1c6a3038b89f_10008x7752.jpeg)
Built on Their Backs: Deets On The Role of Enslaved Labor in the Construction of America's Foundational Structures
The construction of the White House and the Capitol stands as a testament to the ambition and vision of the early United States, embodying the ideals of democracy, freedom, and unity that the nation aspired to uphold. These buildings are not just physical structures but symbols of the American experiment, housing the executive and legislative branches of government, respectively. However, behind their majestic facades lies a complex and often troubling history, one that intertwines the pursuit of liberty with the harsh realities of slavery.
The late 18th century was a period of profound transformation for the fledgling United States. Having won its independence from Britain, the new nation was eager to establish its own identity and infrastructure. In 1790, the Residence Act was passed, designating a site along the Potomac River for the new capital city, which would later be named Washington, D.C., in honor of the nation's first president, George Washington. This decision set in motion the planning and construction of the city’s key buildings, including the President's House (later known as the White House) and the United States Capitol.
The vision for these buildings was grand. The White House was intended to be a stately residence befitting the leader of a republic, while the Capitol was to be an imposing structure that would house the United States Congress, symbolizing the legislative heart of the nation. Pierre Charles L’Enfant, a French-born engineer, was commissioned to design the city’s layout, with the Capitol and the White House as central features.
Despite the ambitious plans, the United States faced significant challenges in bringing these projects to fruition. The new government lacked the financial resources and skilled labor necessary for such large-scale construction. To address these shortages, the federal government and private contractors turned to the institution of slavery, a grim but prevalent reality in the Southern states. Enslaved African Americans were seen as a solution to the labor problem, providing a readily available and cost-effective workforce.
The use of enslaved labor in the construction of the White House and the Capitol represents a stark contradiction in American history. These buildings, which would come to symbolize freedom and democracy, were erected by individuals who were denied their own freedom. Enslaved African Americans played an indispensable role in every phase of construction, from the backbreaking task of quarrying stone to the skilled craftsmanship required for detailed carpentry and masonry work.
This chapter explores the multifaceted role of enslaved labor in the construction of these iconic buildings. It sheds light on the lives of the enslaved workers, their contributions, and the harsh conditions they endured. By examining historical records and personal accounts, this chapter aims to give voice to those whose labor was essential yet largely unrecognized in the annals of American history.
As we delve into this history, it is crucial to acknowledge the broader context of slavery in America. The use of enslaved labor for such significant national projects underscores the pervasive and systemic nature of slavery, even in a nation founded on principles of liberty and justice. Understanding this aspect of history is vital for a more comprehensive and honest portrayal of the American past.
In recent years, efforts have been made to recognize and honor the contributions of enslaved laborers. Historical research has brought to light their indispensable role, leading to exhibitions and memorials that seek to correct the historical record. By acknowledging this history, we can better appreciate the complexities and contradictions of America's founding and strive towards a more inclusive and accurate representation of our collective heritage.
This chapter aims to contribute to this ongoing effort by highlighting the crucial, yet often overlooked, contributions of enslaved African Americans in the construction of the White House and the Capitol. Through this exploration, we honor their legacy and recognize the deep and lasting impact of their labor on the nation's history.
The Early Planning and Construction
The vision for Washington, D.C., as the capital of the newly formed United States, was born out of a need to establish a neutral ground for the nation's government, away from the existing state capitals that could imply regional favoritism. In 1790, the Residence Act was passed, which authorized President George Washington to select the precise location for the capital along the Potomac River. This site was chosen not only for its strategic location between the northern and southern states but also for its potential to become a grand symbol of the nation’s ideals.
Selecting the Site and Designing the City
President George Washington played a pivotal role in the early planning stages. He appointed Pierre Charles L’Enfant, a French-born engineer and architect, to design the layout of the new capital city. L’Enfant envisioned a city of grandeur, with wide avenues, public squares, and imposing buildings that would reflect the aspirations and democratic values of the United States. Central to his plan were two key structures: the President's House and the Capitol.
L’Enfant’s design called for the President's House, later known as the White House, to be situated on Pennsylvania Avenue, a prominent location that would symbolize the executive power of the nation. The Capitol, designated as the home of the United States Congress, was to be placed on Jenkins Hill (later known as Capitol Hill), offering a commanding view of the city and signifying the legislative authority.
Challenges and the Turn to Enslaved Labor
While the vision for the capital was grand, the practical realities of its construction posed significant challenges. The nascent federal government had limited financial resources, and the task of constructing such monumental buildings required a large and skilled workforce. At the time, the United States did not have a sufficient number of free laborers with the necessary skills or willingness to undertake the arduous work.
To address these issues, the commissioners overseeing the construction decided to supplement the workforce with enslaved labor. Enslaved African Americans were seen as an essential solution due to their availability and the economic advantage they provided. The federal government and private contractors leased enslaved individuals from their owners, paying a rental fee while the enslaved workers themselves received no compensation.
Roles and Responsibilities of Enslaved Workers
Enslaved laborers were involved in nearly every aspect of the construction process for both the White House and the Capitol. Their roles included:
Quarrying and Transporting Materials: Enslaved workers were sent to quarries in Virginia and Maryland to extract the sandstone and other materials needed for construction. This work was physically demanding and dangerous, involving the use of primitive tools and techniques to break and shape the stone. Once quarried, these materials had to be transported to the construction sites, often involving long and grueling journeys.
Skilled Trades: Many enslaved individuals possessed specialized skills as carpenters, blacksmiths, stonemasons, and bricklayers. Their expertise was crucial in the detailed and intricate work required to build the White House and the Capitol. Despite their skills, they were not acknowledged as artisans and received no recognition for their craftsmanship.
Manual Labor: The bulk of the construction work involved heavy manual labor. Enslaved laborers dug foundations, mixed mortar, carried bricks and stones, and erected scaffolding. They worked long hours under harsh conditions, with minimal rest and sustenance, all while under the constant threat of punishment.
Human Cost and Harsh Realities
The reliance on enslaved labor for these national projects came at a significant human cost. Enslaved workers endured brutal working conditions, with long hours of strenuous labor, insufficient food and shelter, and constant supervision. The physical toll of the work was immense, leading to injuries, exhaustion, and in some cases, death. Despite their vital contributions, these individuals were treated as property rather than human beings, with their labor exploited for the benefit of the nation.
Moreover, the use of enslaved labor highlights the paradox of a country founded on principles of liberty and justice, yet dependent on the institution of slavery to achieve its goals. The White House and the Capitol, symbols of democracy and freedom, were built by individuals who were themselves denied these very rights.
Acknowledgment and Recognition
In recent years, there has been a growing movement to acknowledge the contributions of enslaved laborers to the construction of the White House and the Capitol. Historical research has brought to light the extent of their involvement and the conditions they endured. Exhibitions and memorials have been established to honor their memory and recognize their indispensable role in American history.
For example, the Capitol Visitor Center includes an exhibition that pays tribute to the enslaved workers who helped build the Capitol. Similarly, the White House Historical Association has undertaken efforts to document and share the stories of the enslaved individuals who contributed to the construction of the President's House.
By acknowledging this history, we can better understand the complexities and contradictions of America’s founding. Recognizing the role of enslaved labor in building these iconic structures is essential for a comprehensive and honest portrayal of our nation’s past, ensuring that the contributions and sacrifices of these individuals are remembered and honored.
Enslaved Labor in Construction
The construction of the White House and the Capitol relied heavily on the labor of enslaved African Americans, whose contributions were crucial yet largely unacknowledged at the time. These individuals were integral to nearly every aspect of the building process, performing a wide range of tasks that required both immense physical strength and specialized skills. This section explores the various roles that enslaved laborers played in the construction of these iconic buildings, highlighting their indispensable contributions and the harsh conditions they endured.
Quarrying and Transporting Materials
One of the most physically demanding tasks undertaken by enslaved laborers was quarrying stone for the construction of the White House and the Capitol. The sandstone used for these buildings was sourced from quarries in Virginia and Maryland. Enslaved workers were sent to these quarries, where they faced grueling conditions. They used primitive tools to extract large blocks of stone from the earth, a process that required significant physical strength and endurance.
Once the stone was quarried, it had to be transported to the construction sites in Washington, D.C. This involved loading the heavy stone blocks onto wagons or boats and moving them over long distances. The transportation process was arduous and dangerous, with enslaved laborers often working long hours under the supervision of overseers. The physical toll of this work was immense, leading to injuries and, in some cases, fatalities.
Skilled Trades
Contrary to the common misconception that enslaved individuals were unskilled laborers, many were highly skilled craftsmen. Their expertise in various trades was crucial for the construction of the White House and the Capitol. Enslaved workers were employed as carpenters, blacksmiths, stonemasons, and bricklayers, performing tasks that required precision and technical knowledge.
Carpenters: Enslaved carpenters were responsible for constructing the wooden frameworks of the buildings, as well as creating intricate woodwork for the interiors. Their work included building scaffolding, framing the structures, and crafting detailed wood paneling and moldings.
Blacksmiths: Enslaved blacksmiths played a vital role in forging the metal components needed for construction. They created tools, nails, hinges, and other metal fixtures, working in forges that were often hot and hazardous.
Stonemasons: Enslaved stonemasons were essential for shaping and setting the stone used in the buildings. Their tasks included cutting and fitting stone blocks, creating detailed carvings, and ensuring the structural integrity of the stonework.
Bricklayers: Enslaved bricklayers constructed the brick walls and chimneys of the buildings. They mixed mortar, laid bricks in precise patterns, and ensured that the walls were straight and stable.
Despite their skills and contributions, these craftsmen were not acknowledged for their work. They labored under the constant threat of punishment and were denied any recognition or compensation for their expertise.
Manual Labor
In addition to skilled trades, enslaved laborers were responsible for the bulk of the manual labor required for construction. This included digging foundations, mixing mortar, carrying materials, and erecting scaffolding. The work was physically exhausting and often involved long hours in harsh weather conditions.
Digging Foundations: Enslaved workers dug the deep foundations required for the massive structures. This task involved removing large amounts of earth, often with rudimentary tools, and preparing the ground for construction.
Mixing Mortar: Mortar was a crucial component of construction, used to bind bricks and stones together. Enslaved laborers mixed mortar by hand, combining lime, sand, and water in precise proportions to create a durable adhesive.
Carrying Materials: Enslaved workers carried heavy loads of bricks, stones, and other materials to the construction sites. This work required immense physical strength and was often done under the watchful eyes of overseers.
Erecting Scaffolding: Building scaffolding was essential for allowing workers to reach higher parts of the structures. Enslaved laborers constructed and dismantled scaffolding, ensuring that it was stable and safe for use.
The Human Cost
The use of enslaved labor for the construction of the White House and the Capitol came at a tremendous human cost. Enslaved workers were subjected to brutal conditions, including long hours of strenuous labor, inadequate food and shelter, and constant surveillance by overseers. The physical and psychological toll of this work was immense.
Enslaved laborers faced the constant threat of violence and punishment. Overseers maintained strict discipline, using physical coercion to ensure that the work progressed according to schedule. The fear of punishment created a climate of constant stress and anxiety for the enslaved workers.
The contributions of enslaved laborers were essential to the construction of these iconic buildings, yet their labor was exploited, and their humanity was denied. They received no compensation for their work, and their efforts went largely unrecognized for many years.
The Human Cost
The construction of the White House and the Capitol was marked by the significant human cost borne by enslaved African Americans. These individuals endured severe physical and psychological hardships, their labor exploited to build monuments to freedom and democracy from which they were cruelly excluded. This section delves into the various aspects of the human cost, exploring the brutal conditions, the physical and psychological toll, and the long-term impact on the enslaved laborers and their communities.
Brutal Working Conditions
Enslaved laborers faced grueling and inhumane working conditions while constructing the White House and the Capitol. They were forced to work long hours, often from sunrise to sunset, regardless of weather conditions. The nature of their tasks—quarrying stone, transporting heavy materials, digging foundations, and constructing buildings—was physically exhausting and hazardous.
Long Hours: Enslaved laborers worked from dawn until dusk, with minimal breaks. The demanding schedule allowed little time for rest or recuperation, leading to chronic fatigue and physical strain.
Harsh Weather: The construction sites were exposed to the elements, meaning that enslaved laborers worked in extreme heat during the summer and bitter cold in the winter. They lacked adequate clothing and shelter to protect them from these harsh conditions.
Dangerous Tasks: The work was inherently dangerous, involving the use of primitive tools and heavy materials. Enslaved laborers faced constant risks of injury from accidents, such as falling from scaffolding, being crushed by stones, or suffering from tool-related injuries.
Physical Toll
The physical demands of the construction work took a severe toll on the bodies of enslaved laborers. The tasks required immense physical strength and endurance, leading to a range of health issues and injuries.
Musculoskeletal Injuries: The repetitive and strenuous nature of the work caused musculoskeletal injuries, including strains, sprains, and chronic back pain. Enslaved laborers often suffered from joint and muscle damage due to the heavy lifting and constant physical exertion.
Inadequate Nutrition: The diet provided to enslaved laborers was typically insufficient and lacked essential nutrients. This inadequate nutrition, combined with the high physical demands of their work, led to malnutrition and weakened their bodies, making them more susceptible to illness and injury.
Lack of Medical Care: Enslaved laborers had little to no access to medical care. Injuries and illnesses were often left untreated, leading to prolonged suffering and, in some cases, death. The absence of proper medical attention exacerbated the physical toll of their labor.
Psychological Toll
In addition to the physical hardships, enslaved laborers endured significant psychological trauma. The constant threat of violence, the dehumanizing treatment, and the relentless work conditions created an environment of fear, anxiety, and hopelessness.
Threat of Punishment: Enslaved laborers worked under the constant supervision of overseers, who used violence and threats to maintain discipline. The fear of physical punishment, including whipping and beatings, created a pervasive atmosphere of terror and stress.
Dehumanization: Enslaved individuals were treated as property rather than human beings. Their identities, skills, and humanity were systematically denied, leading to feelings of worthlessness and despair. The lack of recognition and respect for their contributions further compounded their psychological suffering.
Separation from Family: Many enslaved laborers were forcibly separated from their families and communities. This separation caused profound emotional distress, as they were unable to maintain familial bonds or support networks. The isolation and loss of loved ones added to their emotional burden.
Long-Term Impact
The long-term impact of the brutal working conditions and dehumanizing treatment extended beyond the individuals directly involved in the construction. The exploitation and trauma experienced by enslaved laborers had lasting effects on their communities and descendants.
Intergenerational Trauma: The physical and psychological trauma endured by enslaved laborers was passed down through generations. The effects of systemic violence, exploitation, and dehumanization left deep scars on families and communities, influencing their social and economic conditions for decades to come.
Economic Exploitation: The labor of enslaved individuals contributed significantly to the economic foundation of the United States, yet they received no compensation for their work. This economic exploitation deprived enslaved laborers and their descendants of wealth and opportunities, perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality.
Cultural Erasure: The contributions of enslaved laborers were systematically erased from the historical narrative. The lack of acknowledgment and recognition of their labor and skills contributed to a cultural erasure that has taken years to rectify. Efforts to uncover and honor their contributions are essential steps toward addressing this historical injustice.
Acknowledgment and Memorialization
In recent years, there has been a growing movement to acknowledge and honor the contributions and sacrifices of enslaved laborers. Efforts to memorialize their labor and recognize their humanity are crucial for a more comprehensive and honest understanding of American history.
Historical Research: Scholars and historians have undertaken extensive research to uncover the stories of enslaved laborers. This work involves examining historical records, personal accounts, and other archival materials to piece together a more accurate and inclusive history.
Public Exhibitions and Memorials: Institutions such as the Capitol Visitor Center and the White House Historical Association have created exhibitions and memorials to honor the enslaved individuals who contributed to the construction of these buildings. These initiatives aim to educate the public and ensure that the contributions of enslaved laborers are recognized and remembered.
Educational Programs: Educational programs that incorporate the history of enslaved laborers into school curricula and public discourse are essential for raising awareness and promoting a deeper understanding of this aspect of American history. By educating future generations, we can foster a more inclusive and empathetic society.
The human cost of constructing the White House and the Capitol was borne by enslaved African Americans who endured unimaginable hardships to build these symbols of freedom and democracy. Their labor and sacrifices were essential to the creation of these iconic structures, yet they were denied their own freedom and humanity. Acknowledging the contributions and suffering of these individuals is a crucial step toward a more honest and inclusive portrayal of American history. By honoring their legacy, we recognize the deep and lasting impact of their labor and ensure that their stories are remembered and respected.
Acknowledgment and Legacy
In recent years, there has been a concerted effort to acknowledge the contributions of enslaved laborers in the construction of the White House and the Capitol. This acknowledgment is essential not only for honoring the individuals who endured tremendous hardships but also for providing a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of American history. This section explores the various initiatives and efforts aimed at recognizing and memorializing the labor and legacy of enslaved workers, including historical research, public exhibitions, memorials, and educational programs.
Historical Research
The first step towards acknowledgment involves extensive historical research to uncover the stories and contributions of enslaved laborers. Historians and scholars have dedicated significant efforts to examining archival materials, personal accounts, and historical records to piece together the often-overlooked history of enslaved labor in the nation's capital.
Archival Research: Researchers have combed through government documents, contractor records, and personal correspondences from the late 18th and early 19th centuries. These documents provide crucial insights into the extent of enslaved labor used in the construction projects, including details about the individuals involved, their roles, and the conditions they faced.
Personal Accounts: Oral histories and personal narratives of descendants of enslaved laborers have also been invaluable in shedding light on the human experiences behind the historical records. These accounts offer a more personal and nuanced perspective on the hardships and contributions of enslaved individuals.
Publication of Findings: The findings from this research have been published in academic journals, books, and reports, contributing to a growing body of literature that seeks to correct the historical record. These publications aim to bring the stories of enslaved laborers to the forefront of American history.
Public Exhibitions and Memorials
To ensure that the contributions of enslaved laborers are publicly acknowledged and remembered, various institutions have created exhibitions and memorials dedicated to their legacy.
Capitol Visitor Center: The Capitol Visitor Center features an exhibition that pays tribute to the enslaved workers who helped build the Capitol. This exhibition includes artifacts, historical documents, and interpretive displays that highlight the labor and skills of enslaved individuals.
White House Historical Association: The White House Historical Association has undertaken research projects to document and share the stories of the enslaved individuals who contributed to the construction of the President's House. Their efforts include creating online resources, hosting public events, and collaborating with historians to produce comprehensive reports on the topic.
Memorials and Plaques: Various memorials and plaques have been installed at historical sites to honor the contributions of enslaved laborers. These memorials serve as physical reminders of their labor and sacrifices, ensuring that their contributions are recognized by visitors and future generations.
Educational Programs
Education plays a crucial role in raising awareness about the contributions of enslaved laborers and promoting a more inclusive understanding of American history. Educational programs that incorporate this history into school curricula and public discourse are essential for fostering a deeper appreciation of the nation's complex past.
School Curricula: Efforts have been made to integrate the history of enslaved laborers into school curricula at various levels. This includes developing lesson plans, textbooks, and educational materials that highlight the role of enslaved individuals in the construction of the White House and the Capitol.
Public Lectures and Seminars: Universities, historical societies, and cultural institutions frequently host public lectures, seminars, and workshops focused on the contributions of enslaved laborers. These events provide opportunities for scholars, students, and the general public to engage with this history and gain a deeper understanding of its significance.
Digital Resources: The advent of digital technology has enabled the creation of online resources that make information about the contributions of enslaved laborers more accessible. Websites, virtual exhibitions, and digital archives allow people from around the world to learn about this important aspect of American history.
Legacy and Continued Efforts
The acknowledgment of enslaved laborers' contributions is not just about setting the historical record straight; it is also about recognizing the lasting impact of their labor and honoring their legacy. Continued efforts are needed to ensure that their stories are remembered and that their contributions are celebrated as an integral part of the nation's history.
Ongoing Research: Historical research is an ongoing process, and scholars continue to uncover new information about the contributions of enslaved laborers. This research helps to provide a more complete and accurate picture of their role in American history.
Community Engagement: Engaging with the descendants of enslaved laborers and their communities is crucial for understanding and honoring their heritage. Community-based initiatives, oral history projects, and collaborative research efforts help to preserve and share the stories of enslaved individuals and their families.
Cultural Representation: Efforts to acknowledge the contributions of enslaved laborers also extend to cultural representation in media, literature, and the arts. By incorporating their stories into films, books, and artistic works, we can ensure that their legacy is remembered and celebrated.
The acknowledgment and recognition of the contributions of enslaved laborers in the construction of the White House and the Capitol are essential steps toward a more comprehensive and honest portrayal of American history. By honoring their labor and sacrifices, we acknowledge the complexities and contradictions of the nation's founding and ensure that the stories of these individuals are remembered and respected. Through continued research, public exhibitions, educational programs, and community engagement, we can foster a deeper appreciation of the enduring legacy of enslaved laborers and their indispensable role in building the nation.
Conclusion
The construction of the White House and the Capitol, symbols of American democracy and freedom, is deeply intertwined with the history of slavery. The acknowledgment of the enslaved laborers' contributions to these iconic structures provides a more complete and honest understanding of the nation's past. This conclusion examines the broader implications of this history, the importance of recognizing these contributions, and the steps needed to continue honoring the legacy of the enslaved individuals who helped build the foundation of the United States.
Broader Implications
The use of enslaved labor in the construction of the White House and the Capitol highlights the inherent contradictions in America's founding principles. While the nation was established on ideals of liberty, equality, and justice, it simultaneously relied on the institution of slavery to achieve its goals. This paradox is a critical aspect of American history that must be acknowledged to fully understand the complexities and challenges the nation has faced.
Reflection on National Values: The reliance on enslaved labor for constructing these symbols of freedom forces a reflection on the nation's values and the reality of its historical practices. It underscores the need to confront and address the injustices that have shaped American society.
Legacy of Inequality: The economic exploitation and dehumanization of enslaved individuals have left a lasting legacy of inequality and systemic racism. Understanding this history is essential for addressing the ongoing disparities and injustices that persist in contemporary society.
Importance of Recognition
Recognizing the contributions of enslaved laborers is not just about correcting the historical record; it is about honoring the individuals who endured unimaginable hardships and ensuring their stories are remembered. This recognition has several important implications:
Restoring Dignity: Acknowledging the labor and skills of enslaved individuals restores their dignity and humanity, which were denied to them during their lifetimes. It affirms their role as essential contributors to the nation's history.
Educational Value: Incorporating the history of enslaved laborers into educational curricula enriches the understanding of American history for students and the public. It provides a more nuanced and comprehensive narrative that includes the perspectives of those who were marginalized and oppressed.
Healing and Reconciliation: Recognizing the contributions and suffering of enslaved laborers is a step toward healing and reconciliation. It helps to address historical wrongs and promotes a more inclusive and empathetic society.
Continuing the Legacy
Honoring the legacy of enslaved laborers requires ongoing efforts in research, education, and public engagement. Several steps can be taken to ensure their contributions are continually recognized and celebrated:
Ongoing Research: Continued historical research is essential to uncover more details about the lives and contributions of enslaved laborers. This research helps to fill gaps in the historical record and provides a more complete understanding of their role in American history.
Public Memorials and Exhibitions: Expanding public memorials and exhibitions dedicated to enslaved laborers ensures their stories are accessible to a wide audience. These spaces serve as educational tools and places of remembrance, fostering a deeper appreciation of their contributions.
Community Involvement: Engaging with the descendants of enslaved laborers and their communities is crucial for preserving and honoring their heritage. Community-based initiatives and oral history projects provide valuable insights and help to keep the memory of these individuals alive.
Inclusion in Cultural Narratives: Incorporating the stories of enslaved laborers into cultural narratives, such as films, books, and artistic works, ensures their legacy is remembered and celebrated. These representations can inspire greater awareness and appreciation of their contributions.
Final Thoughts
The construction of the White House and the Capitol, built with the labor of enslaved African Americans, symbolizes the complex and often contradictory nature of American history. By acknowledging and honoring the contributions of these individuals, we take a crucial step toward a more inclusive and honest portrayal of our past. This recognition not only restores the dignity of those who labored under brutal conditions but also enriches our understanding of the nation's foundation.
As we continue to uncover and share the stories of enslaved laborers, we honor their legacy and ensure that their contributions are not forgotten. Through research, education, public engagement, and cultural representation, we can foster a deeper appreciation of the enduring impact of enslaved laborers on the United States. By doing so, we not only acknowledge the complexities of our history but also commit to building a future that reflects the values of justice, equality, and inclusivity.