Governor Northam announces 5 new historical highway markers that address Black history in Virginia
Jessica Larche
Slavery in the United States began in Hampton Roads at Fort Monroe, once known as Point Comfort, where the first enslaved Africans arrived in 1619.
and last updated 2021-05-09 15:49:57-04
RICHMOND â Governor Ralph Northam announced five new state historical highway markers honoring the Commonwealth's African American history.
âThe contributions of influential African Americans have frequently been ignored, underrepresented, and even silenced,â said Governor Northam. âWith this initiative, we have asked students and teachers to help us tell a more accurate, comprehensive, and inclusive Virginia story by suggesting new historical markers that recognize Black Virginians and the important ways they have shaped our shared history. I am grateful to all those who have joined in our efforts to build a strong and equitable Commonwealth.â