Daisy Bates, Johnny Cash Statues Represent Arkansas in Statuary Hall
Arkansas is known for its rich history, culture, and talented individuals who have made a significant impact on the state and the nation. Two such individuals, Daisy Bates and Johnny Cash, will soon be honored with statues in the United States Capitol’s Statuary Hall.
The National Statuary Hall Collection, located in the United States Capitol building in Washington D.C., is a collection of 100 statues, two from each state, representing notable figures from each state’s history. Arkansas’s current statues are of James P. Clarke, former governor and U.S. senator, and Uriah M. Rose, a lawyer and prominent figure in the state’s development. However, it was recently decided that these statues would be replaced with those of Daisy Bates and Johnny Cash.
Daisy Bates, a civil rights activist and journalist, played a vital role in the desegregation of Little Rock Central High School in 1957. She and her husband, L.C. Bates, were owners and publishers of the Arkansas State Press, an African-American newspaper that advocated for civil rights. Through their newspaper, they brought attention to issues of segregation and discrimination, and encouraged African-Americans to exercise their right to vote.
In 1957, when nine African-American students were selected to integrate Little Rock Central High School, Bates became a prominent figure in the fight for desegregation. She provided guidance and support to the students, known as the Little Rock Nine, and helped them navigate the challenges they faced while attending the school. Her bravery and determination inspired many and made a significant impact on the civil rights movement.
Daisy Bates’ statue in Statuary Hall will not only honor her contributions to Arkansas but also her significant role in the fight for equality and justice in the United States. It will serve as a reminder of the power of standing up for what is right and the impact one person can make.
The second statue to represent Arkansas in Statuary Hall will be that of the legendary singer-songwriter, Johnny Cash. Known as the “Man in Black,” Cash was born in Kingsland, Arkansas, and is known for his iconic career spanning over five decades. He is considered one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century, with hits such as “I Walk the Line,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” and “Ring of Fire.”
Cash not only impacted the music industry but also used his platform to speak about social and political issues. He was an advocate for Native American rights, prison reform, and the rights of the poor. Cash’s songs often reflected his own personal struggles, making them relatable to listeners around the world. His unique sound and meaningful lyrics have made him a household name and an American icon.
Johnny Cash’s statue in Statuary Hall will serve as a testament to his immense talent and impact on American culture. It will also remind visitors of his humble roots in Arkansas and the state’s contributions to the music industry.
The decision to replace the current statues in Statuary Hall with those of Daisy Bates and Johnny Cash has been met with overwhelming support from the people of Arkansas. Governor Asa Hutchinson expressed his excitement, stating, “Both Daisy Bates and Johnny Cash are iconic figures in our state’s history, and it is only fitting that they are honored in Statuary Hall. Their contributions to Arkansas and the nation are immeasurable, and their statues will serve as a reminder of their legacies for generations to come.”
The statues of Daisy Bates and Johnny Cash will also be the first statues of African-Americans to represent Arkansas in Statuary Hall. This is a significant step in recognizing and honoring the diverse and influential individuals who have shaped the state’s history.
In conclusion, the addition of Daisy Bates and Johnny Cash’s statues in Statuary Hall is a proud moment for Arkansas and a well-deserved honor for these remarkable individuals. Their legacies will now be forever preserved in the United States Capitol, representing the state and inspiring future generations. It is a reminder that through courage, determination, and talent, anyone can make a lasting impact on the world.
