COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio leaders, artists and community members gathered at the Ohio Statehouse today to celebrate the ceremonial groundbreaking of the Ohio Women’s Monument, a historic project that will permanently honor generations of women who shaped Ohio and the nation.

Governor Mike DeWine, First Lady Fran DeWine, and other dignitaries participated in the ceremonial groundbreaking on the South Plaza of the Ohio Statehouse. In honor of Women’s History Month, the Capitol Square Foundation and the Ohio Arts Council began the public phase of the Ohio Women’s Monument with a groundbreaking dedicated to the accomplishments and contributions of women from across Ohio.

“Ohio’s story has always been shaped by remarkable women whose leadership strengthened our communities, expanded opportunity, and helped move our state forward,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “This monument ensures that their contributions will be permanently recognized at the Statehouse, inspiring future generations of Ohioans to lead and serve.”

Guests were welcomed by the Canal Winchester High School Varsity Singers from as well as actors dressed as historic suffragettes, highlighting the role Ohio women played in the fight for voting rights and civic participation. Attendees also viewed a time-lapse video showcasing the early stages of the monument’s creation and the sculptural work already underway.

The monument, created by acclaimed sculptor Brenda Councill, blends classical and contemporary elements to represent women across generations. The design features four granite columns engraved with the ideals of Equality, Justice and Liberation, with the names of notable Ohio women etched into the stone. Bronze figures representing women from different eras will stand atop three of the columns, while a fourth column will remain open as a symbolic space for future generations.

“It is an incredible privilege to help tell their story in such a meaningful place,” said Brenda Councill, the monument’s artist. “Through these sculptures, we are celebrating the courage and determination of Ohio women who fought for equality, opportunity and a voice in our democracy.”

The monument is the result of years of planning and collaboration among Ohio legislators and leaders, the Ohio Women’s Suffrage Centennial Commission, the Capitol Square Foundation, and the Capitol Square Review and Advisory Board. It is also part of a broader effort to ensure that women’s contributions to civic life are reflected in public spaces and historical storytelling.

“Public art has the power to tell stories that shape how we understand our history,’ said Ginger Warner, chair of the Ohio Arts Council. “The Ohio Women’s Monument will help ensure that the achievements of Ohio women are recognized alongside the leaders who already stand on these grounds, creating a richer and more complete picture of our state’s heritage.”

The total projected cost is approximately $2.5 million, with nearly $1.7 million already raised through private philanthropy efforts supporting the monument’s design, fabrication and installation. Remaining funds will support educational programming, interpretive materials and future expansion at the Ohio Statehouse.

More than 250,000 visitors come to the Ohio Statehouse each year, including tens of thousands of students from all 88 counties. Educational materials and exhibits connected to the monument will help visitors learn about the women whose leadership and determination helped shape Ohio’s past — and inspire the leaders of tomorrow.

The monument is expected to be unveiled in fall 2026 and will be one of many exciting America 205-Ohio events that celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States.

For more information about the Ohio Women’s Monument or to donate, visit the Capitol Square Foundation at ohcapitolsquarefoundation.org.