Thanks so much for sending
me a copy of the Proclamation Honoring the Heroes of
Harpers Ferry and all those who fought against slavery
and all those struggling for liberation … I
appreciate learning how Ranger Soskin inspired Jovanka
Bechels to write and present the proclamation to the City
of Richmond. One need not study American history
long to know that it has been written and taught with a
broad bias, that it is largely exclusive and not inclusive
of minorities and their histories. It is inspiring
to learn of the efforts at your site and other sites throughout
the NPS to bring a balance of perspectives to events in
American history. :::::
Good luck to you; congratulations
to the City of Richmond and Mayor Gayle Mc Laughlin for
approving the proclamation. In
2009 the National Park Service will commemorate the 150th
Anniversary of the John Brown Raid, at events being planned
for that time. I will place a copy of your letter
and the proclamation in our park archives to reference
the connections between the events in our respective parks.
Keep up the good work.
Don Campbell Superintendent, Harpers
Ferry National Historical Park
