The City of Austin hosts a public monument dedication events to honor the 36 men, women, and children discovered under the footprint of the Oakwood Chapel in 2016.  

In 2016, during the rehabilitation of the Oakwood Cemetery Chapel, archaeologists monitoring construction discovered the remains of men, women and children beneath the footprint of the Chapel. Construction was halted and thus began the journey of confronting injustice and gaining insight into the lives of the people who were discovered.

Since 2016, the Parks and Recreation department has collaborated with local and national experts on a 2 day online symposium, digital history exhibits, genealogy research, 3D modeling through a National Endowment for the Humanities Digital Humanities Advancement Grant, and memorialization efforts.   

In November 2021, the remains were reinterred and a blessing event was held. A monument was designed that has just been installed.

Now, on May 19th-21st 2023, we are hosting a the 3-day memorial event that includes: guided tours of the Historic Colored Grounds and the Oakwood Chapel, a talk by a historian, a racial healing event, a dedication of the monuments, a walking procession, and a homegoing celebration.

All events are free and open to the public. RSVPs requested.