Depending on what if anything Wiscasset selectmen decide June 7, a James Weldon Johnson memorial spot could be set aside at the town common and a bench one of them made could be part of it.

Look for results of the board’s meeting at wiscassetnewspaper.com and in the June 16 print edition. 

Monday, the town released an email from Selectmen’s Chair Sarah Whitfield providing the James Weldon Johnson Observance Task Force’s proposal and stating she would be adding it to Tuesday’s agenda. The task force’s letter reads:

“Dear Wiscasset Select Board Members,

“We are excited to join with you in celebrating Maine’s first annual James Weldon Johnson Day on Friday, June 17, 2022. A Task Force convened by the Permanent Commission on the Status of Racial, Indigenous, and Tribal Populations – which includes your Select Board colleagues Terry Heller and Dusty Jones – has designed an exciting and culturally rich daylong commemoration honoring the life and legacy of this Civil Rights leader, artist, and global citizen who sought respite in Maine and whose extraordinary life ended in this beautiful coastal town.

“An important aspect of our commemoration is the James Weldon Johnson memorial project. The proposed site (is) on the Wiscasset Town Common measuring approximately 20 feet x 20 feet ... to the right of the central sidewalk when ascending the hill toward the First Congregational Church.

“With permission from the Select Board, the ... Task Force proposes to revitalize and beautify this small plot ... with the aim of creating a serene, inspirational site of memory. Within view of the Wiscasset (Public) Library, the County Courthouse, the Congregational Church, and the former Governor’s house, there seems no more fitting place ... to honor an exemplary American whose accomplishments in the literary arts, in law, in the realm of faith, and in advancing democracy can be a deep source of pride, not only for Wiscasset and Maine, but for our entire nation.

“At the commemorative ceremony to take place Friday, June 17, 2022 the Task Force plans to gift the Town of Wiscasset with a beautiful and symbolic bench. Handcrafted by Dusty Jones, it incorporates white oak and purple heart wood in homage to the man who co- authored the song “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” currently under consideration by ... Congress for designation as our national hymn. This bench is intended as an invitation to residents and visitors alike to find respite at the proposed memorial site, encouraging all to rest and reflect on our country’s long journey toward racial justice and then again to stand, renewed in their strength and commitment to march on.

“... Heller has proposed that the town ... offer its own contribution to the memorial site by planting a white oak tree in the vicinity of the commemorative bench. (A) quote for $1,000 includes the cost of the tree and its placement. Following this year’s Observance, the ... Task Force would like to pursue its collaboration with the town ... to further enhance the site, perhaps adding a small memorial garden. Any further enhancements of this nature would be paid for by fundraising efforts by the Task Force.

“We thank you for your consideration and would be pleased to answer any questions about the proposed memorial. It is also our great hope that you will be able to join us in celebrating Maine’s first annual James Weldon Johnson Day on June 17.”

The board meets at 6 p.m. June 7 at Wiscasset Community Center; or attend via Zoom at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89949074298?pwd=UllSQTRtd1RqQ1YvSEV5T0l6UWNsQT09

Meeting ID: 899 4907 4298 Passcode: 083446

Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kduhVcebfc