DC committee debates resolution honoring enslaved builders of Capitol against paid workers

A heated debate unfolded during the Tennessee State Legislature's Naming & Designating Committee meeting on April 7, 2025, as lawmakers grappled with a resolution aimed at honoring all individuals involved in the construction of the state Capitol. The discussion centered on the inclusion of enslaved people alongside compensated workers, igniting concerns over historical accuracy and moral implications.

One committee member passionately argued that the resolution risks diluting the significance of the enslaved individuals who built the Capitol, emphasizing that they were forced into labor without compensation and faced severe consequences for their work. "These men were not just workers; they were enslaved and subjected to violence and terror," the representative stated, highlighting the need for a clear distinction between the experiences of enslaved individuals and those of their overseers.

In response, the resolution's sponsor defended the approach of collectively recognizing all contributors to the Capitol's construction, regardless of their status. "We want to make sure everybody that had a hand in building the Capitol is recognized," they asserted, suggesting that individual plaques could specify the roles of each person involved.

However, the opposing viewpoint maintained that equating the labor of enslaved individuals with that of compensated workers undermines the gravity of their suffering. "It is immoral to say that we want to connect the enslaved and the enslaver," the representative argued, stressing the importance of honoring the dignity and legacy of those who endured slavery.

As the discussion continued, the committee faced the challenge of balancing recognition with historical integrity. The resolution's future remains uncertain, with advocates calling for a more nuanced approach that honors the unique experiences of enslaved individuals while acknowledging the contributions of all involved in the Capitol's construction. The outcome of this debate could shape how Tennessee remembers its complex history and the individuals who played a role in it.