Paid for by Citizens for Colburn Committee. Authority John W. Phillips, Jr., Treasurer

Md. House approves $100,000 for Douglass statue at courthouse
By CHRISTINE NEFF
Staff Writer - Star Democrat
April 4, 2005

ANNAPOLIS — Legislation passed last week by the Maryland House of Delegates will provide $100,000 toward the design and construction of the Frederick Douglass memorial.

Delegate Jeannie Haddaway introduced the bill, co-sponsored by Delegate Addie Eckardt. Senator Richard Colburn has crossfiled the bill in the Senate.

Members of the Frederick Douglass Memorial Action Coalition (Fred’s Army), clad in tee-shirts and buttons, attended the hearing to show their support.

“Until now, over 100 years after his death, Douglass has been an unsung hero in our county,” said Haddaway. “This funding is an important step toward ensuring that future generations know about his important contributions to our society and our nation.”

Haddaway said the extra financial support will help Fred’s Army in its future fund-raising efforts. Money may help get additional grants and private donations, especially when matching funds are needed.

Moonyene Jackson-Amis, founder of Fred’s Army, gave written testimony in favor of the bill. She said Fred’s Army has involved the local and international community in an effort to honor Douglass’s legacy.

“His legacy embodies so much rich history,” said Jackson-Amis. “It’s clear that he is one of the most important, if not the most important, person from this area, from the state of Maryland. All of us have to take responsibility in remembering him appropriately.”

She said she was pleased the state has become a partner in the project and thanked Senator Colburn and Delegates Haddaway and Eckardt for their support.

“They’re part of Fred’s Army too,” she said.

Washington, D.C. artist Ed Dwight has been selected to create the monument that should be completed by spring 2006.