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NPS Unveils 13 Statues at D.C. Plaza, Rodney Sparks Controversy

5/25/2026

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Summary

Story summary

National Park Service staff installed thirteen new statues at Freedom Plaza in downtown Washington, D.C., on Friday.
One of the statues depicts Caesar Rodney, a Revolutionary War officer who owned enslaved people, sparking controversy.
Visitors described the installation as emotional and urged a complete historical narrative.
Freedom Plaza remains closed to the public while the statues are being positioned.

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Story summary

National Park Service staff installed thirteen new statues at Freedom Plaza in downtown Washington, D.C., on Friday.
One of the statues depicts Caesar Rodney, a Revolutionary War officer who owned enslaved people, sparking controversy.
Visitors described the installation as emotional and urged a complete historical narrative.
Freedom Plaza remains closed to the public while the statues are being positioned.