Kearns Requests New York State Underground Railroad Specialty License Plate

Erie County Clerk joins U.S./Canadian Underground Railroad Committee in calling for plate to honor New York's Underground Railroad history and support education

Erie County, N.Y. - Erie County Clerk Michael P. "Mickey" Kearns is formally requesting that the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) establish a specialty license plate recognizing the Underground Railroad and New York State's significant role in the struggle for freedom and abolition.

The request follows conversations with DeWitt Lee III, Chairman of the U.S./Canadian Underground Railroad Committee and a community crusader with Care Takers of Our Culture, who presented the license plate concept to Kearns.

Kearns has requested Acting New York State DMV Commissioner Christian Jackstadt to explore the creation of an Underground Railroad specialty plate and work with the U.S./Canadian Underground Railroad Committee, the organization that presented the idea, along with community leaders, historians and cultural organizations to help develop the historical tribute.

"Buffalo and Erie County have a profound connection to the Underground Railroad and the courageous individuals who risked everything in pursuit of freedom," said Kearns. "A New York State specialty license plate would provide a lasting and highly visible tribute to those freedom seekers, abolitionists, faith leaders and everyday citizens who helped make our community a gateway to freedom."

Located along Lake Erie and just a short distance from Canada, Buffalo became an important destination for freedom seekers escaping slavery. The region's history includes figures such as Rev. Jermain Loguen, Rev. Samuel Ringgold Ward and abolitionist William Wells Brown, as well as countless others whose names may not have been recorded.

Kearns is also asking the DMV to explore whether revenue generated through the plate could support the U.S./Canadian Underground Railroad Committee's Underground Railroad Jr. Conductors educational programming and efforts to preserve and promote Underground Railroad sites across New York State.

"This specialty plate can be more than a symbol," Kearns said. "It can be an educational tool and potentially help support programs that preserve this history and teach future generations about the Underground Railroad."

Lee said the committee brought the proposal to Kearns because of his appreciation for African American culture and his willingness to champion community initiatives.

"A license plate seen across New York State is a fitting way to commemorate America 250 and celebrate the completion of Phase One of the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad New York Byway," said Lee. "We look forward to the day when vehicles traveling this historic route carry Underground Railroad plates."

Lee added that the committee is working with other states to join the effort and said New York could help lead a broader national recognition of freedom seekers and those who supported their pursuit of freedom.

The request comes as Buffalo and Erie County recognize September 2026 as Underground Railroad Month and during America 250, providing an opportunity to highlight New York's role in this important chapter of American history.

"Why not a specialty license plate recognizing the Underground Railroad?" Kearns said. "Why not use this highly visible platform to honor those who fought for freedom and educate future generations about New York's role in that struggle?"

Kearns welcomes the opportunity to work with the DMV, the U.S./Canadian Underground Railroad Committee, historians, community leaders and interested organizations to further develop the proposal.