Statue of Civil Rights Leader Daisy Bates Unveiled at U.S. Capitol

A new chapter in American history was written on May 8, 2024, as a statue of civil rights leader Daisy Bates was officially unveiled in the U.S. Capitol’s National Statuary Hall. Representing the state of Arkansas, Bates’ statue replaces a former Confederate figure, symbolizing a significant shift in how the nation honors its past.

Daisy Bates, a journalist and activist, played a pivotal role in the desegregation of Little Rock Central High School in 1957. As the president of the Arkansas NAACP, she guided and supported the Little Rock Nine, a group of Black students who faced violent opposition when integrating the school under federal orders. Her work was instrumental in advancing civil rights and challenging segregation in the South.

“Daisy Bates was a true American hero,” said House Speaker Hakeem Jeffries during the unveiling ceremony. “Her courage and dedication helped transform our country, and this statue ensures that future generations will remember her contributions.”

The statue, sculpted by Benjamin Victor, captures Bates in a determined stance, holding a copy of the Arkansas State Press, the newspaper she co-published with her husband. The artwork embodies her dual role as an activist and journalist, highlighting her relentless fight for racial justice.

Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, who attended the ceremony, praised the selection of Bates as the state’s representative. “She stood for bravery, equality, and the fundamental American principle that every child deserves an education,” Sanders stated.

The replacement of a Confederate figure with Bates is part of a broader effort to reassess historical symbols in public spaces. Across the country, several states have removed statues honoring Confederate leaders and figures tied to slavery, replacing them with individuals who fought for justice and equality.

For many, the unveiling of Bates’ statue marks a long-overdue recognition of her legacy. “Her story is one of perseverance and triumph,” said historian Dr. Carol Anderson. “This statue ensures that her impact on American history will never be forgotten.”

The statue of Daisy Bates now stands as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for equality and the progress that has been made in the pursuit of civil rights.