A recent revision to a National Parks webpage related to the “Underground Railroad” has sparked debate over the erasure of Harriet Tubman from historical narratives. The removal of an image and quote from Tubman, a pivotal figure in the Underground Railroad movement, has raised concerns about the preservation of her legacy.
Previously, the National Parks Service webpage prominently featured a quote from Tubman and an image of her, underscoring her role as a key “conductor” in the Underground Railroad. However, recent changes have seen these references removed, along with mentions of enslaved individuals and the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850. Instead, the webpage now focuses on civil rights leaders and the concept of “Black/White Cooperation,” shifting the narrative away from the struggles of enslaved peoples.
While a separate NPS webpage dedicated to Tubman remains unchanged, questions linger about the motivations behind these alterations. This incident follows a series of controversial changes to government websites under the Trump administration’s campaign to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. From removing words like “transgender” and “queer” to targeting historical figures like Jackie Robinson, these actions have sparked outcry and protests.
As the debate over the preservation of history continues, concerns about the manipulation of cultural and historical institutions raise questions about the importance of upholding diverse narratives. The impact of these changes on public understanding and memory remains a subject of ongoing scrutiny and discussion.
