Robert E Lee statue removed from US Capitol

“We should all be proud of this important step forward for our Commonwealth and our country,” said Northam in a statement. “The Confederacy is a symbol of Virginia’s racist and divisive history, and it is past time we tell our story with images of perseverance, diversity, and inclusion. I look forward to seeing a trailblazing young woman of color represent Virginia in the U.S. Capitol, where visitors will learn about Barbara Johns’ contributions to America and be empowered to create positive change in their communities just like she did.”

“Confederate images do not represent who we are in Virginia. That’s why we voted unanimously to remove this statue,” said state Sen. Louise Lucas, who chaired the Virginia commission that recommended the removal. “I am thrilled that this day has finally arrived, and I thank Governor Northam and the Commission for their transformative work.”

A state commission recently voted on replacing Lee’s statue with one honoring civil rights leader Barbara Johns.

In 1951, 16-year-old Barbara Johns led a student strike for equal education at Robert Russa Moton High School in Farmville, Virginia. Her protest gained the support of the NAACP and her case was one of five that were consolidated into the pivotal Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka lawsuit. The Supreme Court ruling in that case declared segregation unconstitutional in 1954.