As our class went on the field trip to Columbus Park we were questioned with what does Beecher's statue represent. As we stared and gathered our conclusions although Beecher looked to help abolish slavery his statue still put him at a position of power. The statue created in 1891 by John Quincy Adam Ward was created to honor Beecher and his attributions to abolishing slavery and his help as well toward orphaned children. But this statue just shows Beecher still being above those who were looking for equality. There is much conversation around how this statue could be altered to represent a better image and message of what should really be shown.
To contribute to that conversation this statue should be altered to have Beccher on the same pedestal as those who are represented to be below him. An idea or suggestion may be to have the woman who looks up at him be the one on the same pedestal as Beecher standing side by side as an image of a step toward equality. The woman as well as the children should be shown in an equal light as Beecher. And this is just one suggestion on how to give those who stand below him the worthy representation they should have.
Thank you for your post. One thing to think about with your map assignment is whether it's possible to challenge the Beecher monument by pairing it with contemporary art works that send a more inclusive message. In other words, Beecher could be a stop on your map, but the site of the future memorial to Black abolitionists can be as well, together with Thomas's Unity, for example.