When you think of Times Square, what comes to mind? Bright lights, giant billboards, and the hustle of millions of people passing through each day. But what if there was a statue in that iconic space that didn’t just stand out for its size, but for its symbolism — a statue of a Black woman, bold and unapologetic? The idea of a Times Square statue of a Black woman sparks more than just curiosity; it’s a conversation about representation, culture, and the stories we choose to elevate in public spaces.

Times Square is often called the "Crossroads of the World," a place where trends begin and history is made. Yet, for all its vibrancy, there’s something missing — a lasting tribute to the powerful voices and contributions of Black women. This idea isn’t just a what-if anymore; it’s a growing movement. People are talking about what it would mean to have a statue like that in one of the most visited spots on the planet.

So, what’s the big deal about a Times Square statue of a Black woman? Why now? And what kind of impact could such a monument have? Keep reading as we explore the story, the symbolism, and the possibilities of this bold vision.

• Dorothy Bowles Ford

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• What Is the Times Square Statue of a Black Woman?
• Why This Statue Matters
• Public Reaction and Support
• Who Should Be Honored?
• How to Get Involved
• Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Times Square Statue of a Black Woman?

The idea of a Times Square statue of a Black woman is still in the conceptual stage, but it’s gaining traction. It’s not just about putting up a sculpture — it’s about making a statement. A statue in Times Square would be visible to millions, both in person and through media. It would be a symbol of pride, resilience, and the vital role Black women have played in shaping American culture and history.

There are many public statues in New York City, but very few in Times Square itself, and even fewer that honor Black women. This idea is part of a larger push for more inclusive representation in public art. From murals to monuments, there’s a growing movement to ensure that the stories we celebrate reflect the full diversity of our society.

So, what would this statue look like? Some imagine a realistic figure, standing tall and proud. Others suggest something more abstract or symbolic — a gesture of strength and grace. The design would likely be chosen through a public process, possibly even a competition, to ensure it reflects the values and spirit of the community it represents.

• Davido Father

Why This Statue Matters

Imagine walking through Times Square and seeing a statue that represents not just a person, but a legacy. Black women have long been the backbone of communities, movements, and families. They’ve led civil rights campaigns, shaped music, literature, and fashion, and often done so while facing extraordinary challenges.

A statue in Times Square would be more than a piece of art. It would be a daily reminder of that strength. It would say, “You belong here. Your story matters.” That kind of visibility can be powerful — especially for young people who need to see themselves reflected in the world around them.

It would also be a step toward equity in public spaces. Right now, most statues in major cities are of white men. That doesn’t reflect the true makeup of our society. Adding a statue of a Black woman would help correct that imbalance and show that all stories are worth telling.

Public Reaction and Support

The idea of a Times Square statue of a Black woman has sparked excitement and debate. Many people see it as a long-overdue tribute. Others question the logistics — where would it go? Who would fund it? How would the community be involved in the decision?

Supporters argue that the statue would be a beacon of hope and progress. They point to other recent efforts to add more diverse statues in public spaces — like the Harriet Tubman statue in Harlem or the Maya Angelou statue in San Francisco. These monuments have been celebrated for their beauty and for what they represent.

There are also practical steps being considered. Fundraising campaigns, community forums, and artist collaborations could all play a role in bringing the statue to life. Social media has helped spread the word, with hashtags like #TimesSquareStatue and #BlackWomenMatter gaining traction.

Who Should Be Honored?

If a statue like this becomes a reality, who should be represented? That’s one of the biggest questions. Some names come up again and again:

• Maya Angelou – poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist
• Kamala Harris – first Black and South Asian woman Vice President of the U.S.
• Shirley Chisholm – first Black woman elected to Congress and first to run for a major party’s presidential nomination
• Sojourner Truth – abolitionist and women’s rights activist
• Oprah Winfrey – media mogul and cultural icon

Then again, some people believe the statue should represent a collective — all Black women, past and present. It could be a symbolic figure, not tied to a single person, but instead honoring the strength, creativity, and resilience of an entire group.

Whatever the choice, it’s clear that whoever is honored would need to be someone whose life and legacy reflect the values of justice, empowerment, and community that the statue would symbolize.

How to Get Involved

Want to be part of this movement? There are several ways to help make the Times Square statue of a Black woman a reality:

1. Spread the word – Share the idea on social media using hashtags like #TimesSquareStatue or #BlackWomenMatter.
2. Join a campaign – Look for local or national organizations working on public art and representation.
3. Support artists – Many Black female sculptors, designers, and creators would love to be part of this project. Support their work and amplify their voices.
4. Attend community meetings – Stay informed about public art initiatives and participate in local discussions.
5. Donate – If there’s a fundraising campaign, consider contributing to help bring this vision to life.

Change starts with conversation, and every voice matters. Whether you’re sharing your thoughts online or attending a town hall meeting, you can help shape the future of public art in New York City.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will there really be a Times Square statue of a Black woman?

As of now, there’s no official statue in place, but the idea is gaining attention. It’s part of a broader push for more inclusive representation in public spaces, and many people are actively working to make it a reality.

Who would design the statue?

That hasn’t been decided yet, but it’s likely that a competition or community-driven process would be used to choose the artist or design team. This ensures the final product reflects the values and spirit of the people it represents.

How can I support this initiative?

You can spread the word on social media, join related campaigns, support Black artists, attend community meetings, or donate to any fundraising efforts that arise. Every little bit helps bring the vision closer to reality.

Final Thoughts

The idea of a Times Square statue of a Black woman is more than just a dream — it’s a powerful symbol of progress and possibility. It’s about visibility, honor, and the stories we choose to celebrate in the most iconic corners of our cities. Whether it’s Maya Angelou, Shirley Chisholm, or a symbolic figure representing all Black women, this statue would be a reminder that every voice matters, and every story deserves to be told.

If you’re passionate about representation, culture, and public art, this is your moment to get involved. Share your thoughts, support the movement, and help shape the future of Times Square — one of the most famous places in the world.

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