Major Milestone for Frederick Douglass Memorial Park: NYC Individual Landmark Designation

We are honored to share that on June 18, 2024, Frederick Douglass Memorial Park in Oakwood, Staten Island was unanimously approved by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) and formally designated as an individual landmark by Eric Adams, Mayor of the City of New York.

Why this designation is so meaningful

• The park is the only existing non‑sectarian cemetery founded by — and specifically for — New York City’s Black community.

• Established in 1935, it provided dignified burial rights when segregation and discrimination barred many Black New Yorkers from equal services.

• Landmark status ensures the site’s preservation, recognition, and educational impact for future generations.

What this means for our community

Mayor Adams stated:

“On the day before Juneteenth, New York City remembers our shared history by shining a light on a memorial park that opened its doors when others turned Black New Yorkers away.” New York City Government

LPC Chair Sarah Carroll emphasized that the designation:

“reflects LPC’s ongoing commitment to recognizing, protecting, and celebrating places of Black cultural and historical significance, and ensures that Frederick Douglass Memorial Park will be preserved for future generations to come.” New York City Government

Looking ahead

With this landmark status, we reinforce our mission to honor the countless lives, stories, and legacies interred here. We invite the community—present and future—to visit, reflect, and connect with this sacred space of African American heritage, dignity, and remembrance.