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. |
This is an event celebrating the African American and Quaker Cemeteries at Walter Pierce Park, featuring The Jubilee Singers of All Souls Unitarian Church, The Massachusetts 54th and 23rd Regiments of the U.S. Colored Troops, and the Ladies of FREED - Women of the Civil War. This event is free and all ages are welcome. No reservations are required.
