Arkansas to Honor Daisy Bates and Johnny Cash with Statues at U.S. Capitol

The new statues replace lesser-known historical figures, highlighting Arkansas's rich cultural and civil rights heritage.

Daisy Bates, a key figure in the desegregation of Central High School, and Johnny Cash, a music legend, will soon stand in Statuary Hall.
The initiative to replace the old statues began five years ago, reflecting a shift towards recognizing more contemporary and influential figures.
Sculptors Benjamin Victor and Kevin Kresse are tasked with creating the statues, aiming to capture the essence and impact of Bates and Cash.
The replacements come as part of a broader movement to reassess historical representations and honor more diverse contributions to society.
The unveiling of Bates' statue is scheduled for this week, with Cash's to follow later this year, symbolizing Arkansas's diverse cultural identity.