
Today marks ten years since the unveiling of Mary Slessor's memorial, proudly standing outside the historic Old Steeple.
This memorial is dedicated not only to her great life and contributions but also as a reminder of the continuing influence she had, and still has, both here in Dundee and far across the continent of Africa, to which she devoted her life.
The memorial in itself is a beauty, really capturing the essence of her spirit and the deep influence she had on so many lives.
This tribute to one of Dundee's legends is easily one of my favourites in the city, and it is easy to see why.
While it is indeed brilliant to see memorials dedicated to those who have strong links to Dundee and have contributed a great deal to society, I feel that there is one noticeably missing from this landscape of remembrance.
This individual also has deep ties to Dundee and deserves recognition for his work, which is Williamina Fleming.
The value of her outstanding work in astronomy, from discovering the Horsehead Nebula and white dwarf stars, to the inputs in star classification.
Williamina should have her own memorial stone
There are several strong reasons why the memorial stone must be placed near Mary Slessor's one.
It would first and foremost be a fitting tribute to two of the most influential women Dundee has ever had, whose work and contributions have left their mark both locally and internationally.
But more importantly, the strategic positioning of the memorial stones would add another level of meaning to it-as it would face the very place where Williamina was born, the memorial would create a tangible connection between her origins and her remarkable achievements.
I believe it would remind one that within each person, no matter the walk of life from which he comes, is potential that can reach great heights through determination and passion.
It is Williamina's work as one of the first few female astronomers to work at Harvard Observatory and being a pioneer in this field dominated by males that raises this paper's importance in understanding contributions by women to science.
It is time that we take this opportunity to give honor to Williamina Fleming with a memorial that reflects her life and the importance of her work on our understanding of the universe.
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