An art installation in Arlington, Virginia, is honoring Queen City, a once-thriving Black community that was forcibly displaced in the 1940s to make way for The Pentagon. The installation features a striking 35-foot structure made from approximately 5,000 red bricks, symbolizing the resilience and history of the 903 African American residents who lost their homes. Dr. William Vollin, a 93-year-old resident who experienced the displacement, recalls the vibrant life in Queen City, which included a Black fire department, churches, and local businesses, despite lacking basic utilities like running water and electricity.
The story of Queen City is being highlighted at the Black Heritage Museum of Arlington, where artifacts and photographs depict the community's rich history. Dr. Scott Taylor, the museum's president, emphasizes the importance of remembering the past, noting that the displacement was an atrocity that affected many families. The community's legacy is now being recognized more broadly, as local leaders and historians work to ensure that the narrative of Queen City is not forgotten.
This recognition comes at a time when discussions about racial equity and historical injustices are increasingly prominent in American society. The memorialization of Queen City serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by its residents and the ongoing struggle for recognition and reparative justice for marginalized communities across the nation.