Honoring Henrietta Lacks: A Monumental Tribute

On October 4, 2024, a new life-size bronze statue of Henrietta Lacks was unveiled to honor the legacy of this remarkable woman, marking the 73rd anniversary of her passing. It was a touching and meaningful ceremony held in her hometown of Halifax County, Virginia, where local residents came together to celebrate Lacks’ life and lasting influence. The people of Halifax County—moved by her extraordinary contributions to science and society—pooled their resources to fund this statue, rallying around her memory as a figure of inspiration and resilience.

The unveiling event resonated deeply with attendees, including members of the Lacks family and locals who came to share the impact of Henrietta's story on their lives. Hope Harris-Gyles, co-chair of the Henrietta Lacks Hometown Initiative, expressed sentiments that capture the bond between Henrietta and the people of Halifax: “Halifax was her home and in her heart, and she will forever belong to us and we to her. Our stories are inextricably linked, and I’m so proud that on this day we are bringing her story home.” It was a powerful tribute to a woman whose legacy has changed countless lives across the globe.

A Long-Lasting Legacy

Henrietta Lacks’ story is one of resilience, dignity, and remarkable influence. Born in 1920, Lacks became a symbol of strength and courage, but she is most famously known for the invaluable contribution of her cells to science. Taken without her consent during her treatment for cervical cancer, her cells—now known as HeLa cells—showed a unique ability to reproduce in laboratory conditions. This discovery set the foundation for advancements across a broad spectrum of medical research, including the development of the polio vaccine, gene mapping, cancer treatment, and more.

Despite these contributions, Henrietta Lacks herself remained largely unrecognized for decades, her name hidden behind the medical research that benefited from her cells. It is only in recent years that her story has gained widespread recognition, sparking conversations on ethics, consent, and the vital role of personal agency in medical science.

Capturing Her Essence in Bronze

Designing the statue of Henrietta Lacks was a project that went beyond just creating a likeness. Our aim was to capture the essence of who she was and the monumental impact she has had on humanity. From her expression to her posture, we wanted every detail to convey strength and grace. The statue is more than a figure; it is a permanent, visual testament to a woman who changed the world without ever knowing the extent of her contribution.

The bronze material itself was carefully chosen for its durability and timelessness, representing the lasting effect Henrietta’s life has had on society. It stands as a testament not only to her memory but to her resilience in the face of adversity. This statue is a celebration of her story, her legacy, and her contribution—a beacon for future generations to reflect on and learn from.

A Project Close to Our Hearts

Being entrusted with this project was a humbling experience for us at Big Statues. Creating a statue of Henrietta Lacks was a profound honor and responsibility, and we are grateful to have been part of this historic tribute. We hope that this statue will serve as a place of reflection and remembrance, as well as a symbol of the continuing impact Henrietta Lacks has on medical science, ethics, and human rights.

As her statue stands proudly in Halifax County, we are reminded of the strength and dignity that Henrietta embodied and the enduring power of her legacy. May this tribute to Henrietta Lacks inspire all who see it to remember her story and recognize her as a pioneer who, despite the circumstances, became a foundational figure in modern medical science. Her story, encapsulated in bronze, will continue to be a source of inspiration, education, and remembrance for years to come.

‍