Activist and attorney Michael Coard, a founding member of the Avenging the Ancestors Coalition (ATAC), has announced a renewed effort to restore the slavery memorial at the historic President’s House site in Philadelphia. This follows the recent dismantling of the memorial, which was a significant acknowledgment of the lives of nine enslaved individuals who lived at the first presidential mansion.
Coard, who played a pivotal role in the creation of the memorial nearly 25 years ago, addressed a gathering of approximately 60 people at Mother Bethel A.M.E. Church on January 24, 2026. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the memorial at its original location on Independence Mall. “Our goal, first and foremost, is to remain at that site — intact,” Coard stated. “There’s only one first White House where Black people were enslaved. There are no alternatives.”
The removal of the slavery exhibits has been linked to a push by the Trump administration to eliminate content deemed to “inappropriately disparage Americans past or living” from federal lands. This directive, part of an executive order, has sparked widespread criticism, with many viewing it as an attempt to whitewash history. The federal authorities have set a mid-September deadline for changes to disputed content at national parks across the country.
Coard indicated that ATAC is preparing a multi-faceted response to the removal of the exhibits, hinting at potential legal action but refraining from providing specific details. The backlash against the dismantling of the memorial has been strong, with expressions of sorrow and anger evident in the community. Tributes such as roses, flowers, and signs proclaiming “Slavery was real” were left at the memorial site, reflecting public sentiment.
Attendees of the rally were encouraged to express their support in various ways, from engaging with social media campaigns to physically bringing signs to the memorial. Coard urged the community to “stand up, fight back, and resist,” highlighting the importance of activism in preserving historical narratives.
The memorial at the President’s House has served as a critical reminder of the complex history of freedom and slavery in America. It encapsulates the paradox of a young nation that celebrated liberty for some while subjecting others to oppression. This sentiment was echoed by community members, including Bishop Richard Allen, a former slave and founder of Mother Bethel Church, who was honored at the memorial.
The removal of the exhibits has raised broader questions about the management of historical narratives and the importance of acknowledging uncomfortable truths in American history. Coard and his supporters are committed to ensuring that the stories of those enslaved at the President’s House are not forgotten.
In the aftermath of this controversy, the National Park Service has not yet publicly commented on the memorial’s future, and inquiries made for a statement went unanswered. The ongoing efforts by Coard and ATAC reflect a deep commitment to social justice and historical preservation, emphasizing the need for continued dialogue about America’s past as it seeks to become a more inclusive society.
