The Emancipation Proclamation and March on Washington: A Struggle for Equality
A forum on the commemoration of the Emancipation Proclamation and the March on Washington, and the triumphant struggle for freedom, justice, and equality
On Wednesday, January 28, DC Government will Open at 10 am. View press release for full details.
To find support and resources for federal workers, visit fedsupport.dc.gov.
Register for Emancipation Day 2025![]() |
What is Emancipation Day?The DC Compensated Emancipation Act of 1862 ended slavery in Washington, DC, freed 3,100 individuals, reimbursed those who had legally owned them and offered the newly freed women and men money to emigrate. It is this legislation, and the courage and struggle of those who fought to make it a reality, that we commemorate every April 16, DC Emancipation Day. |