The Harriet Tubman statue, 'The Beacon of Hope,' displayed at the Woodson Museum.
On April 23, 2025, St. Petersburg celebrated the unveiling of the Harriet Tubman statue, ‘The Beacon of Hope.’ Students from the Journeys in Journalism program engaged with sculptor Wesley Wofford, gaining insights on art, history, and activism. The statue stands as a powerful symbol of freedom and resilience, inviting community dialogue and reflection.
On April 23, 2025, the warm sun shone down on the proud city of St. Petersburg, where locals gathered to celebrate a momentous occasion—the unveiling of a striking bronze statue of the legendary Harriet Tubman. The city was basking in near-record high temperatures of 81°F, accompanied by gentle southern breezes. The perfect spring weather set the stage for a day filled with inspiration, learning, and connection.
The statue, titled “Harriet Tubman — The Beacon of Hope”, was meticulously crafted by Emmy Award-winning sculptor Wesley Wofford. Standing tall at 13 feet, the sculpture is a stirring tribute to Tubman’s incredible fight for freedom and human dignity. It finds its home in the serene surroundings of the Woodson African American Museum of Florida’s Legacy Garden—a fitting place for such a powerful representation.
Just days before the grand unveiling, students from the Journeys in Journalism program visited the museum on April 18, 2025. These students, representing various local elementary, middle, and high schools, were in for a unique experience as they were granted the opportunity to engage in a lively conversation with Wofford himself. This interaction provided them with valuable insights into the intersecting worlds of history, art, and activism through the art of storytelling.
During the informative discussion, young minds like Zaniyah Walls, a 13-year-old student, got to ask Wofford about the intricate details and designs of the statue. Wofford’s artistic journey—from Hollywood special effects to creating monumental sculptures—allowed students to witness how art can encapsulate emotional storytelling and profound history. Through this dialogue, the students learned not just about Tubman’s legacy but also about the importance of vigilance in the fight for equality.
One of the most poignant aspects of the sculpture is the shackle at its base, intended to provoke deep reflection on the harsh realities of enslavement. Student Riley Gallow-Braxton articulated this profound connection during the visit. Tubman’s story is one of resilience, and the statue represents her transformative journey from enslavement to becoming an American icon. Notably, Wofford included a gold star within the design, symbolizing the North Star that guided Tubman and many others to freedom.
For students like Queen Garrett, the experience provided a greater understanding of African American history. The statue serves as a reminder of Tubman’s incredible legacy and aims to inspire viewers to unlock their own potential in combating present-day injustices. It communicates that while Tubman’s physical journey may have ended, her spirit and the fight for freedom continue to resonate today.
The sculpture will be on display at the Woodson Museum until June 2025, offering plenty of time for visitors to witness its beauty and significance firsthand. As part of ongoing community engagement, Wesley Wofford will also give a talk at the museum, further connecting with the public and encouraging discussions about the continued relevance of Tubman’s story and the work still needed in the pursuit of justice.
The unveiling ceremony and the students’ visit marked a pivotal moment in St. Petersburg, reminding all of us about the importance of history, activism, and the power of art to inspire change. Whether you’re a student, a history buff, or just someone looking for a meaningful experience, the Harriet Tubman statue stands as a beacon—a reminder of the strength found in determination and the ongoing quest for freedom.
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