BRISTOL, R.I. (WLNE) — There was a solemn but important ceremony Sunday afternoon in Bristol.

Town and state officials gathered for the unveiling of a sculpture honoring descendants of the transatlantic slave trade and those affected by it.

Senator Jack Reed and Representative Gabe Amo were among the many guest speakers who spoke on the statue’s significance.

“When you think about the concept of freedom, something that is aspirational,” Amo said. “We see it in our state’s motto of hope. We know that hope is all that some had.”

“This memorial reminds us that our country’s past, no matter how painful, must be recognized,” Reed said. “The truth must be embraced.”

The statue is located at Independence Park.

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