Initiative commemorates Sarah Parker Remond’s 200th birthday and the City of Salem’s 400+ anniversary
SALEM, MA – Mayor Dominick Pangallo and the City of Salem are proud to announce that, in commemoration of Sarah Parker Remond’s 200th birthday – June 6, 2026 – and in partnership with acclaimed artist Jane Fiorentini Steward, a fine-art giclée reproduction of the 2017 oil-on-canvas portrait of abolitionist and Salem native Sarah Parker Remond will be created for the new Sarah Parker Remond School. The original work currently hangs on the second floor of Salem City Hall directly outside the Mayor’s Office and City Council Chambers.
This exceptional and unique portrait was rendered with care and attention to detail, based on the only known photograph of Ms. Remond. The artist generously donated the original painting to the City of Salem on July 1, 2022, ensuring its place as a lasting tribute to one of Salem’s most influential historical figures.
The forthcoming reproduction will be crafted true to the original work and will be produced as a single-edition artist print. It will be prominently installed in the new Sarah Parker Remond School for the start of the 2026-27 academic year.
This initiative is part of Salem’s 400+ celebrations and serves as a meaningful way to honor Sarah Parker Remond’s 200th birthday. Through this installation, the City aims to deepen public awareness of Remond’s legacy as a pioneering abolitionist, lecturer, and advocate for equality.
“Sarah Parker Remond’s life and work remain profoundly relevant today,” said Mayor Pangallo. “We are so proud to further elevate her legacy as a woman born here in Salem with impact throughout the world, and we are honored to partner with Jane Fiorentini Steward to bring this powerful image into a space where it can inspire students and visitors for generations to come. I am so grateful to City staff and to the artist for helping us to do so. I hope all who walk through the front doors of the Sarah Parker Remond School into the future will be inspired by this portrait to carry forward her advocacy, her ideas, and her hopes for a more equitable world for all.”
Also in conjunction with Sarah Parker Remond’s 200th birthday and Salem’s 400+ anniversary, the City of Salem’s Juneteenth Jam Party in the Park on June 19th will open with a keynote address delivered by History Alive’s historical reenactment of Sarah Parker Remond. Juneteenth Jam takes place Friday, June 19th at 11:30am in Charlotte Forten Park, followed by a full day of fun activities! For a complete schedule and to learn more about the City of Salem’s Juneteenth celebrations, visit: https://salemma.gov/m/
