Downtown Binghamton Freedom Trail starts at Harriet Tubman statue: See the chosen design

Two days after Harriet Tubman Day, the Downtown Binghamton Freedom Trail, which includes 12 historic markers around the city, was unveiled at Binghamton University's Downtown Center.

The chosen design for a statue of Harriet Tubman, to be placed behind the building, was also announced Tuesday morning.

In a project led by Binghamton University's Harriet Tubman Center for Freedom and Equity, each marker on the trail showcases a person or place associated with the Underground Railroad and Civil Rights Movement.

Harriet Tubman statue design chosen

Last year, the starting marker, honoring Tubman, was unveiled. A statue of Tubman, which is supported by a $400,000 grant from New York State, will be built adjacent to the marker.

At the unveiling of the trail on Tuesday, it was announced the statue would be created by sculptor Zoe Dufour, who spoke at the unveiling through Zoom. Dufour's design was one of five considered for the statue. She said one of her goals is to make sure every individual is able to see themselves represented through art.

"The way she lived inspired us, and this monument of her is a way to keep her legacy powerfully alive," Dufour said. "Harriet Tubman offers an example of how much impact an individual can have on our communities, and being a part of creating her tribute is a privilege."

The trail will also include a memorial garden, and will involve partnerships with local school districts which focus on curriculums with Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) perspectives.

More: 5 design options revealed for Harriet Tubman statue at BU downtown center

Message behind the trail

Binghamton University President Harvey Stenger said the trail was built to highlight the powerful legacy of the Underground Railroad, and to provide motivation for further advances in society.

"The Freedom Trail is about today and tomorrow," Stenger said. "These markers should serve as a reminder that we are still forging paths to diversity, equity and inclusion."

City of Binghamton Mayor Jared Kraham said the project exemplifies a positive aspect of Binghamton's past, and that it can serve as an ideal for future generations to follow.

"Through the Downtown Binghamton Freedom Trail, we are shining a light on our community's anti-slavery and civil rights history," Kraham said. "We are telling stories that frankly for too long were untold, and in doing so we are changing how we as a community represent ourselves and talk about our past."

Anne Bailey, director of the Harriet Tubman Center for Freedom and Equity, addressed fifth graders present at the unveiling.

"Your story matters," Bailey said. "Where you live, and your local history matters. Those are the shoulders on which you stand, and you will make your own contributions as well."

This article originally appeared on Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin: Downtown Binghamton's Freedom Trail opens: Where to find each marker