South Carolina is set to erect its first individual statue for an African American on its Statehouse lawn, commemorating the remarkable life of Robert Smalls. Smalls, a courageous figure from the Civil War era, gained recognition for his daring escape from slavery by commandeering a Confederate ship to freedom along with his family and several others.
However, Smalls' legacy extends far beyond his escape. He went on to serve a decade in the US House, played a pivotal role in amending South Carolina's constitution to grant Black men equal rights post-Civil War, and valiantly fought against the resurgence of racism that sought to undo the progress he had fought for.
State Representative Jermaine Johnson expressed his anticipation to bring his children to witness the historic moment of a statue honoring someone who looks like them. Johnson emphasized the significance of recognizing Smalls' numerous contributions and lamented the delay in honoring his legacy.
The initiative to erect a statue in honor of Smalls has been in the works for years, facing subtle opposition that hindered its progress. However, in 2024, the proposal gained unanimous support in the state House and Senate, championed by Republican Representative Brandon Cox of Goose Creek.
Representative Cox highlighted the importance of acknowledging both the positive and negative aspects of South Carolina's history, emphasizing that honoring Robert Smalls represents a significant milestone in celebrating the state's positive heritage.
The forthcoming statue of Robert Smalls stands as a testament to his enduring legacy and the pivotal role he played in shaping South Carolina's history. It serves as a symbol of resilience, courage, and the ongoing pursuit of equality and justice.
