On July 19, Great Barrington will experience a historic event—the unveiling of the W.E.B. Du Bois Sculpture, a significant tribute to one of America’s most influential civil rights leaders and scholars. This is not just another public art installation; it represents the culmination of a grassroots movement led by the Blackshires Community Empowerment Foundation. This initiative showcases what can be achieved when community vision combines with determined action.
From Vision to Reality: The Leadership Behind the Movement
Ari Zorn, Vice President of Blackshires and Co-Chair of the sculpture project, has played a crucial role in turning this vision into a reality. Alongside Chair Julie Michaels, Zorn helped raise over half of the project’s budget and established a transformative partnership with Embrace Boston, the nationally recognized nonprofit responsible for Boston Common’s acclaimed Embrace Memorial.
The Blackshires leadership team brought both expertise and heart to every phase of the project:
DuBois Thomas, President of Blackshires and member of the W.E.B. Du Bois Legacy Committee, served as the crucial bridge between city officials and community members, ensuring Du Bois’ legacy was honored authentically at every step.
John Lewis, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Blackshires, emphasized regional engagement with the Black community and developed an impact strategy that ensures the project addresses the current struggles for racial and economic justice, rather than focusing solely on historical reverence.
Community Voice Drives the Vision
The project’s most transformative moment came during the W.E.B. Du Bois Idea Jam—a community convening that brought together Black residents, artists, and civic leaders to envision the sculpture’s broader impact. Using Team R3SET’s community design framework, participants called for:
- Greater inclusion of Black stories in local tourism
- Educational programs and interpretive experiences
- Interactive exhibits celebrating Black excellence
- Stronger connections to the broader Du Bois Legacy Project
This was more than just consultation with the community; it represented the community’s ownership of the vision.
Beyond the Sculpture: Building a Movement
The bronze statue is only the beginning. Blackshires is launching a comprehensive Berkshire Black Tourism Campaign in partnership with Embrace Boston and the Du Bois Legacy Committee. This initiative will spotlight the region’s rich Black heritage, support local BIPOC businesses and artists, and expand cultural tourism through storytelling and destination events.
As Ari Zorn explains, “This sculpture is just the beginning. It is about reclaiming space, rebuilding legacies, and designing a future where Black presence is honored year-round, not just during special occasions.”
A Weekend of Celebration and Dialogue
The sculpture launch features a remarkable series of events blending art, history, and community:
Thursday, July 17 | 5:00-7:00 PM
Donor Preview Cocktail Party
Mason Public Library, Great Barrington
An exclusive first look at the statue for supporters and media.
Friday, July 18 | 5:00-6:30 PM
The Creation and Casting of the Du Bois Statue
Chesterwood, Stockbridge
Sculptor Richard Blake shares his artistic journey from initial clay model to final bronze casting.
Friday, July 18 | 4:00 PM & 7:00 PM
Du Bois Forum Roundtable & Celebration
Jacob’s Pillow, Becket
A thought-provoking panel discussion followed by a performance from Red Clay Dance Company and curated dinner with renowned Chef Bryant Terry.
Saturday, July 19 | 2:00-4:00 PM
Unveiling & Dedication Ceremony
Mason Public Library, Great Barrington
The historic moment, featuring remarks from former Governor Deval Patrick and Pulitzer Prize-winning biographer David Levering Lewis.
Sunday, July 20 | 1:00-2:00 PM
Panel: Du Bois as Scholar, Artist, Architect
Chesterwood, Stockbridge
An exploration of Du Bois’ multifaceted legacy with Dr. Chad Williams, Dr. Frances Jones Sneed, artist Delano Burrowes, and other distinguished speakers.
The Power of Partnership
This project succeeded because of extraordinary collaboration between grassroots organizers and established institutions, including:
- Embrace Boston
- Multicultural BRIDGE
- Mass Cultural Council
- W.E.B. Du Bois Legacy Committee
- Blackshires Community Empowerment Foundation
- Team R3SET
Together, they’ve created a model for how diverse leadership, shared values, and community accountability can reshape public spaces while honoring Black legacy.
More Than a Monument
The W.E.B. Du Bois Sculpture unveiling represents a cultural milestone; a fundamental shift in how we remember, represent, and reclaim Black history in public spaces. At the center of this transformation stands Blackshires, proving that community-driven organizations don’t just build monuments—they build movements.
This is your invitation to be part of history in the making. Join us for the unveiling, the celebration, and most importantly, the ongoing work of cultural justice and Black empowerment in Berkshire County.
Learn more and support this vital work at Blackshires.net
