The National Park Service (NPS) has reinstated the original content of its Harriet Tubman and Underground Railroad webpage following public outcry over unauthorized edits. These unapproved changes had removed Tubman’s image and altered language, softening references to slavery and reframing the Underground Railroad’s purpose.
Public Outcry Over Website Changes Regarding Harriet Tubamn
Advocacy groups, including the National Parks Conservation Association, criticized the edits, stating they diminished Tubman’s legacy. The alterations coincided with broader federal efforts to remove diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) content from government platforms.
Civil rights leaders, such as Bernice King, daughter of Martin Luther King Jr., condemned these actions as attempts to erase essential historical truths. The NPS responded by restoring the original content and reaffirming its commitment to accurately portraying complex historical narratives.
NPS Reaffirms Commitment to Historical Accuracy
In a statement, the NPS emphasized its dedication to preserving and presenting the full scope of American history, including the significant contributions of figures like Harriet Tubman. The agency acknowledged the importance of public feedback in maintaining the integrity of its educational materials.
This incident underscores the ongoing debates surrounding the representation of history in public institutions and highlights the vigilance of advocacy groups in preserving the legacies of pivotal historical figures.