Washington: During a White House event celebrating Black History Month, President Donald Trump announced his dedication to honoring prominent Black historical figures in the planned National Garden of American Heroes. He stated that more than ten Black icons, including civil rights leaders, athletes, and musicians, would be included in the monument.
“We’re currently finalizing the location—many states are eager to host it,” Trump shared with the audience in the East Room, as reported by the Hill. “We’ll pay tribute to hundreds of the greatest Americans, including many Black American icons.”
Trump highlighted that the National Garden would prominently feature influential Black women, mentioning figures such as Harriet Tubman, Rosa Parks, Billie Holiday, Aretha Franklin, and Coretta Scott King. The announcement received applause from those present.
He also listed several Black men set to be honored with statues, including Frederick Douglass, Booker T. Washington, Jackie Robinson, Martin Luther King Jr., and Muhammad Ali, noting that the late Kobe Bryant, a basketball legend, would also be recognized.
Originally, the project was intended to be completed before the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, but Trump recently revised the executive order to expedite the garden’s completion.
Describing his vision, Trump stated, “The National Garden will embody the incredible spirit of America. It will serve as a place for citizens of all ages to renew their vision of greatness.”
He added, “During Black History Month, we honor these heroes—not solely because they are Black heroes, but because they are true American heroes who inspire us all.”
The event was attended by notable figures, including professional golfer Tiger Woods, Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.), and former Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron. Trump humorously mentioned that a statue of Woods would be “saved for another time.”
Other attendees included prison reform advocate Alice Johnson, whom Trump pardoned in 2020, former NFL player Jack Brewer, and rap artists Kodak Black and Lil Boosie.