Editor's note: The story was revised to include a more accurate definition of the "Sankofa" concept.
The Alachua County Board of Commissioners unanimously agreed that a new statue will honor the work of late Dr. Patricia Hilliard-Nunn.
The statue will be centered around truth and reconciliation. The statue is inspired by Sankofa, an African word from the Akan tribe in Ghana that's often represented by a backward-facing bird reach for an egg.
"Sankofa," which means to "go back to the past and bring forward that which is useful," is emblematic of Dr. Hilliard-Nunn's trailblazing work in Alachua County.
Commissioner Ken Cornell said he thinks the decision works well for Alachua.
"Alachua County's logo on the sign when you enter is, 'Where nature and culture meet,'" Cornell said. "It kind of ties it all together. It's really, a nice thought."
The board also approved an increase in spending on the statue.
Original funds were increased from $38,000 to $100,000.
County spokesperson Mark Sexton said an anonymous donor will match funds provided by the commission.
Two other prominent African American leaders from the Alachua County area were considered in addition to Dr. Hilliard-Nunn.
The Reverend T.A. Wright and Dr. Cullen Banks were also selected by the Alachua County Historic Commission for this work.
Commissioner Charles Chestnut the fourth explained his reasoning for selecting Nunn.
"They're all deserving, but I'm sort of partial to Dr. Patricia Hilliard-Nunn because of her activism, her commitment and everything that was going on in the community, every celebration, every holiday," Chestnut said. "She was there, giving her input."
The board is now asking artists to send in proposals for the piece.