Michelle Obama’s Comments Lead to Permanent Public Display Addressing Enslaved Labor and American History
The White House Historical Association has unveiled a permanent display of three new historical markers in Lafayette Park, near the White House, highlighting significant aspects of American history. These markers focus on the construction of the White House, acknowledging the labor of both enslaved people and paid workers, as well as the contributions of former first lady Jacqueline Kennedy, who founded the association in 1961. The third marker addresses Lafayette Park’s long history as a site for public protests, from the 1917 suffrage demonstrations to last summer’s protests over racial injustice and police brutality.
The installation was spurred by former first lady Michelle Obama’s public remarks during her tenure, where she often reflected on the fact that the White House was built by enslaved laborers. Her comments sparked a movement that culminated in the creation of these historical markers, providing a lasting recognition of the enslaved people who contributed to the iconic building. The intersection of 16th and H streets, where the markers stand, was officially named Black Lives Matter Plaza by the city government last year.
