After walking from Maryland to Niagara Falls, Anthony Cohen and the traveling Harriet Tubman Journey to Freedom statue made an appearance in Chatham.
The Freedom Walk was roughly 750 kilometres and was a historical retracing of the Underground Railroad.
The trek began on May 4, with the Freedom Walk crew crossing into Canada on July 1. And as if the walk wasn't enough, they also brought with them a 2,200 pound bronze statue of Harriet Tubman.
Since finishing the walk, Cohen and the crew have been travelling to different communities to share their mission. They were at the First Baptist Church in Chatham on Tuesday, with their tour continuing to Merlin on Wednesday and Dresden on Thursday.
Cohen first began walking the Underground Railroad 30 years ago, but says the movement is even more important today.
"America is celebrating its 250th commemoration, but also American history is currently under attack from the highest office in the land," said Cohen. "I wanted to do something that would push back on that, but also start a conversation with Americans and Canadians, our friends to the North, about the importance of that relationship throughout time."
Cohen added that Canada opened its doors to for those in need in the past and that keeping doors open is essential in helping people out, as well as preserving humanity.
"If we're going to be human beings, we have to have humanity. So that's what Freedom Walk 2026 is about, and we're just thrilled to be here in Canada," Cohen continued.
He says the trip was unique, as more people than ever are aware of the history.
"It's this memory that allows us to affirm who we are today. It's nice to see that the underground railroad and all of its lessons and legacy are still alive and well," said Cohen.
The 62-year-old is unsure if he will plan another long trek but says he's open to shorter walks in communities moving forward.
