Whose Statues Should Represent North Carolina in DC?

The U.S. Capitol holds statues of two historic figures from each state. North Carolina’s current contributions are two former governors, Zebulon Vance and Charles Aycock. But not for long. A statue of Billy Graham being unveiled next week will replace the one of Aycock, who campaigned in favor of white supremacy in the 1890s.

The Rev. Billy Graham, a renowned Christian evangelist, will soon be immortalized in the U.S. Capitol.

Vance, whose statue will remain, enslaved people and served as an officer for the Confederacy, as previously reported by The News & Observer. The statues must be of famous North Carolinians who have died.

… statues, in marble or bronze, not exceeding two in number for each State, of deceased persons who have been citizens thereof, and illustrious for their historic renown or for distinguished civic or military services such as each State may deem to be worthy of this national commemoration.

So, who do you think should represent North Carolina in the Capitol? The law is clear: the statues must be of deceased persons who have been citizens of the state and are illustrious for their historic renown or for distinguished civic or military services.

The North Carolina State Capitol building in Raleigh, where the state’s history is on full display.

As we consider who should represent our state, we must think about the values and principles that North Carolina stands for. We must think about the people who have shaped our state’s history and identity.

Historic figures of North Carolina, such as the Wright brothers, Harriet Jacobs, and John Coltrane, have made significant contributions to our state’s history and identity.

Who do you think should join Billy Graham in representing North Carolina in the U.S. Capitol? Write your answer in the comments below.

The U.S. Capitol Building, where the statues of Billy Graham and another notable North Carolinian will soon be on display.