Table of Contents
Why do monuments matter?
“Monuments elevate figures and stories without the deeper work of reckoning with the past,” he said. “I think in order to move forward, we have to have a new relationship with our past, to face it directly in order to foster healing and repair.”
Why should monuments be preserved?
Preserving damaged monuments can connect the public to traditions of targeted destruction: stories that are not always remembered or that have yet to be researched — from antiquity, to Mamie Garvin Fields, to the present. Such preservation also confronts underlying racist assumptions.
Why do we like monuments?
A monument gives someone a place to come, visit, grieve, and remember the dead. Building monuments creates an everlasting object symbolizing the life and accomplishments of an individual, bringing meaning and understanding to future generations of those who have come before.
Why should we visit our historical monuments?
With respect to culture, old buildings help us to understand the history that occurred before we were born and promotes the respect for those who lived in prior times and different traditions. Historical buildings bring character and charm to the neighborhood that people live in.
Is it possible to demolish a historic building?
Not to mention, demolishing a historic building is arduous, and getting approval to do so can be a long-winded process that’s met with opposition from those in favor of preserving historic buildings.
Does removing Confederate monuments lead to forgetting?
“My initial thought is that removing these monuments leads to forgetting,” says Brophy. “We need to be aware that people in power at that time thought it was appropriate to celebrate slavery and Jim Crow.”
Should historic properties be redeemed or demolished?
If a historic property can be restored, redeeming it is almost always preferable to demolishing it and rebuilding. Once restored, a historic property can be used in a new way that benefits and enriches the community, like as a museum, wedding venue, local attraction, etc.
When is it appropriate to remove a historic building?
When the building is a threat to the public, removing it increases safety and property values. If a historic building is a fire hazard, contains asbestos, or is causing other issues, then removing it is in the public’s best interest. In a situation like this, obtaining approval from the city for its demolition shouldn’t be too challenging.