Virginia students’ freedom ideas to be preserved in London time capsule

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Virginia students' ideas of freedom will be celebrated as part of the statewide "Expressions of Freedom" competition and preserved in a London time capsule.

Students in third to 12th grades participated in this statewide initiative to celebrate freedom as the nation's 250th anniversary approaches in 2026. According to a release from the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE), the time capsule is said to be included in the base of the George Washington Statue in Trafalgar Square in London.

The 11 winners were announced on Tuesday, May 20, with their winning submissions on display from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. in the Virginia State Capitol rotunda.

Students responded to the prompt "What does Freedom mean to you?" and submitted original works, including essays, artwork, videos and audio recordings.

“It is inspiring to see students across the Commonwealth reflect on our shared history – giving future generations a window into the hopes and values of this moment in time,” said First Lady of Virginia, Suzanne Youngkin. “To all of the talented young artists, writers, and creators who participated in this project, thank you.” 

During Tuesday's ceremony at the State Capitol, the winning entries were placed into a time capsule to go to the restored pedestal of the George Washington statue in Trafalgar Square, London, a replica of the Houdon statue of Washington located in the rotunda of the Virginia State Capitol.

The London time capsule is set to be opened in 250 years.

"Witnessing the depth of understanding and creative spirit our students have brought to the concept of freedom is truly powerful," said Virginia Secretary of Education Aimee Guidera. "These young Virginians remind us that the pursuit and definition of freedom are ongoing, vibrant conversations vital to our Commonwealth and nation's future." 

Ahead of the 250th anniversary of American Independence, the Friends of Washington Statue, a historic preservation nonprofit, will hold a rededication ceremony in London on June 18.

The VDOE says that Mount Vernon soil was collected on May 12 to be added to the London statue during the June 18 ceremony.

The event was in partnership with the offices of the Governor and First Lady, Virginia Department of Education (VDOE), the American Revolution 250 Commission (VA250) and Friends of the Washington Statue.

To view a collection of the submission winners' work, click here.