WINDSOR LOCKS, Conn. — A new official site has been added to the Connecticut Freedom Trail, continuing to recognize the state's history of freedom, civil rights and social justice.
The New England Air Museum (NEAM) in Windsor Locks is now among over 100 historic sites, houses and museums that showcase "key locations associated with the abolition of slavery, the Underground Railroad, and the fight for civil rights."
"The Tuskegee Airmen: Their Untold Stories" exhibit at the NEAM, which opened last year, tells the stories of a group of African American WWII pilots. The exhibit includes stories told by the surviving airmen and their loved ones of their achievements and the challenges they faced.
Staff at the Connecticut Freedom Trail call NEAM's addition to the trail "a great honor."
“NEAM's ongoing efforts to educate the public is in harmony with the mission of the Connecticut Freedom Trail," said Connecticut Freedom Trail’s Outreach Director, Tammy Denease. "Featuring the Tuskegee Airmen and their historic achievements not only enhances the Museum's offerings but also adds a rich, educational dimension to the Freedom Trail's diverse narrative."
"This designation reflects our commitment to preserving and sharing stories of resilience and courage of those who, like the Tuskegee Airmen, overcame racism and discrimination to hold true to their goal of achieving excellence," said New England Air Museum President Stephanie Abrams. "We believe in the power of education to inspire and unite communities, and this designation reinforces our role as a custodian of history."
For a site to become part of the Connecticut Freedom Trail, it must have "historical integrity," must be at least 50 years old and meet one of the following requirements:
- Be associated with events related to the Amistad Case, 1839–1842
- Be associated with the Underground Railroad and the Abolitionist movement
- Embody the concept of the movement toward freedom and equality of Connecticut's citizens and the heritage of African-American citizens in Connecticut
There will be an official ceremony to commemorate the new addition to the Connecticut Freedom Trail, which will take place at a later date.
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