National Mall to Feature Groundbreaking Dedication to Press Freedom by 2028

U.S. Capitol building illuminated at sunset.

A new monument honoring the free press will grace the National Mall by 2028, shedding light on the sacrifices made by journalists worldwide.

At a Glance

New monument near the National Mall and Capitol underway.
Design symbolizes transparency, clarity, and light.
Conceived after the 2018 Capital Gazette shooting.
Completion targeted for June 2028.

Monument Design and Significance

A new monument will be constructed on the National Mall to honor the free press, providing a poignant reminder of the role journalism plays in preserving democracy. Designed by John Ronan Architects, the monument will feature a glass structure atop a limestone base, symbolizing the transparency and clarity essential to journalism. A pathway around the monument will lead to Remembrance Hall, where the First Amendment will be intricately engraved.

The inspiration for this memorial came from former Congressman David Dreier after the Capital Gazette shooting in 2018. This tragic event claimed the lives of five journalists, prompting a renewed focus on the importance of press freedom. By 2028, on the tenth anniversary of the shooting, the Fallen Journalists Foundation aims to unveil this significant tribute.

Set in a location with direct views of the U.S. Capitol, the monument underscores the intrinsic link between journalism and democracy. Congress authorized this project in December 2020, with construction expected to start in 2026. Importantly, it will be illuminated at night, symbolizing the relentless efforts of the press in shedding light on the truth.

The design renderings of a new memorial planned for the National Mall to celebrate press freedom and honor the journalists who have been slain while doing their jobs have been unveiled.
https://t.co/42HDnSiR1Z

— The Washington Post (@washingtonpost) September 17, 2024

Design Details Highlight the Journalist’s Journey

John Ronan Architects’ design includes roughly 300 handcrafted glass pieces, each representing unique stories from journalists. The materials used aim to reflect qualities such as transparency, clarity, and light, ultimately mirroring the essence of journalism. The pathway to Remembrance Hall mimics the investigative journey many journalists undertake, leading visitors to a reflective space where the First Amendment text will be visible through engraved steel covered by glass.

“The idea is to indicate the qualities of journalism by using materials that suggest transparency, clarity, light,” Cochran said.

The memorial will not list individual names but will use quotes, symbols, and modern digital technologies to honor fallen journalists. This modern approach allows the memorial to stay current and inclusive of recent sacrifices made by journalists. By integrating these elements, the memorial will cater to millions of annual visitors who frequent the National Mall, further educating them on the role of a free press.

A Tribute Born from Tragedy

Barbara Cochran, President of the Fallen Journalists Memorial Foundation, emphasized that the memorial will serve as a powerful reminder of the press’s role as a pillar of democracy. Since unveiling the plans on June 28, 2019—the anniversary of the Capital Gazette shooting—the project has garnered bipartisan support from Congress and numerous private contributions.

“Today, we are speechless. This page is intentionally left blank to commemorate victims of Thursday’s shooting at our office.”

The intersection of Independence Avenue, Maryland Avenue, and 3rd Street, SW, will house this novel glass memorial, the first entirely glass monument in the United States. The location’s significance lies in its symbolism of the connection between journalism and democracy, making the monument visible to millions visiting the U.S. Capitol.

Check out the design renderings of a planned public memorial on the National Mall to honor slain journalists and press freedom, set for completion in 2028https://t.co/gQcIjSWLHw

— Michael Brice-Saddler (@TheArtist_MBS) September 16, 2024