Man Walks 750 Miles With Harriet Tubman Statue to Honor Freedom Seekers
Anthony Cohen has begun a 750-mile journey to retrace a historic Underground Railroad route. Starting in Sandy Spring, Maryland, he plans to reach Ontario by July 4. Along the way, he carries a statue of Harriet Tubman to highlight Black history and the struggle for freedom. The trek, named Freedom Walk 2026, launched on May 4. Cohen, president of the Menare Foundation, is walking 600 miles of the route to mark America’s 250th birthday. His goal is to encourage reflection on freedom and the sacrifices made by those who sought it.
The journey has attracted supporters from different backgrounds. Author Tom DeWolf joined Cohen, hoping to promote healing and a deeper understanding of the nation’s history with slavery. The statue of Tubman, currently displayed at Old Kennett Meetinghouse in Kennett Square, travels with Cohen on a trailer for educational outreach. Cohen’s walk follows paths once used by freedom seekers. By retracing this route, he aims to honour their legacy while raising awareness of Underground Railroad history.
The 750-mile trek will conclude in Ontario on July 4. Alongside the Tubman statue, Cohen continues to engage communities in discussions about Black history. The journey serves as both a tribute and a call to remember the ongoing significance of freedom.