Local Voices
Protesters Want Slavery Exhibit In Philadelphia Restored After Removal: "The Stories Should Be Told"
Wednesday's demonstration was organized by Avenging the Ancestors Coalition, one of the groups that helped create the original exhibit.
January 29, 2026
The fight to restore a slavery exhibit in Philadelphia is ramping up after it was dismantled last week. The National Park Service removed the displays following a directive by President Trump.
Find out what's happening in Philadelphiafor free with the latest updates from Patch.
A few dozen people braved the bitter cold Wednesday afternoon to show their opposition to the removal of a slavery exhibit at Independence National Historical Park. The outdoor exhibit, just steps from the Liberty Bell, opened in 2010 and was meant to examine the paradox of slavery and freedom. Presidents George Washington and John Adams lived at the site, along with enslaved people.
"I believe our students should learn that we are strong enough to face our past and move forward, and removing history, especially the history of Black Americans, is an act of cowardice," said Carmela Detoma, a schoolteacher who said she was able to attend the rally thanks to a snow day Wednesday at her school in Camden, New Jersey.
Find out what's happening in Philadelphiafor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Click here for the full story via CBS Philadelphia
CBS Local Digital Media personalizes the global reach of CBS-owned and operated television and radio stations with a local perspective.
