Frustration arose last weekend on the Belmont Campus surrounding a prominent landmark: the Freedom Plaza Fountain.
On Sept. 14, pictures of a group of women posing for photos in the Freedom Plaza Fountain circulated on student Social Media app, Fizz, sparking discussion across campus on the historical and cultural significance of the fountain.
This has been a recurring issue with multiple groups, both affiliated and unaffiliated with Belmont, posting themselves in the fountain on social media.
Last year, Belmont’s chapter of Alpha Gamma Delta received similar backlash over a photo posted in the fountain.
Freedom Plaza and its fountain were dedicated in 2021 to honor and memorialize enslaved individuals who labored at the original Belmont estate.
The plaza’s location was intentionally selected because of its proximity to the enslaved housing.
“The fountain itself, inscribed with the names of the enslaved laborers who have been identified, is a particularly special spot, a space for reflection, education and honoring those whose names are inscribed there,” said D’Angelo Taylor, vice president of Hope, Unity and Belonging.
For Tamika Williams, vice president of Student Formation and Dean of Students, the events involving the fountain are distressing.
“Recent incidents have highlighted the need for ongoing education and awareness across campus, and we are working in our areas and with other campus leaders to explore additional ways to make the meaning and significance of Freedom Plaza and the fountain clear,” said Dr. Williams.
Safety concerns have also been an ongoing issue with the fountain on campus, said Chief of Campus Security Mark Labbe.
“Entering fountains poses significant risks of injury due to slippery surfaces and the combination of water, electrical components, and sharp objects. Additionally, entering fountains could damage campus property, including the fountains themselves,” said Labbe.
There are different things Campus Security has been doing to combat these issues, Labbe said.
“Our officers immediately address any observed misuse, asking individuals to exit and explaining safety concerns and, for Freedom Plaza, its memorial significance,” said Labbe. “If students witness such behavior, do not intervene directly to avoid potential confrontation, then notify Campus Security via our non-emergency number and an officer will promptly address the situation.”
Signs were recently placed in front of and behind the fountain by Campus Security, discouraging entering the fountain.
Taylor has aimed to increase education on the fountain's significance in response to the incidents, he said.
“Our goal is for every student to understand and respect this space as a place for thoughtful reflection on our shared history and our ongoing journey towards hope, unity, and belonging,” Taylor said. “We encourage students to view the Freedom Plaza dedication video to learn more about the memorial’s significance.”
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This article was written by Samantha Graessle
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