Monument honoring enslaved & free African ancestors unveiled at Elizabeth Juneteenth event
ELIZABETH, N.J. -- A monument was unveiled during a Juneteenth event in Elizabeth on Sunday.
The 313-Plus Monument is located at Snyder Academy on Caldwell Place. It honors the 313-plus enslaved and free African ancestors buried on the grounds of Siloam-Hope First Presbyterian Church.
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The monument was designed by artist Sterling Brown.
"Well, this is 100 years in the making. I was trying to portray our ancestors in a respectful, not depressing kind of way. I wanted them to look at peace," Brown said.
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The event also featured a parade with floats, performers, music and family fun.