April 11, 2009
From DC Office of the Secretary Emancipation Statue - DC
Emancipation Statue in DC
The enslaved people in Washington, DC were freed nine months before President Abraham Lincoln issued his famous Emancipation Proclamation, telegraphing the eventual end of slavery to the rest of the nation. On April 16 1862, President Lincoln signed the Compensated Emancipation Act, For the release of certain persons held to service or labor in the District of Columbia, making DC residents the “First Freed” by the federal government.
Emancipation Day celebrations were held annually from 1866 (pictured at right) through 1901, and resumed in 2002. In 2005 Emancipation Day was made an official public holiday in the District of Columbia. Each year, a series of educational and commemorative activities is held during the week prior to the holiday that celebrates the end of slavery in Washington, DC.
Calendar of Events
April 12, 2009
Concert: Marian Anderson Tribute. Denyce Graves, Sweet Honey in the Rock, the Washington National Opera, and the Chicago Children’s Choir commemorate the 70th anniversary of Marian Anderson’s historic performance on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial.
April 16 - 18
Conference: Emancipation and Race in the Age of Lincoln. A national conference exploring the domestic and international dimensions of emancipation. Each day will feature panel discussions and an evening performance.
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April 8, 2009
What a life he lived…We are saddening by the passing of Dr. Franklin. DBP would not have been as informed, passionate or steadfast in the journey to discuss and learn more about Black History without pioneers such as Dr. Franklin. Our prayers are with his son, John W. Franklin, and family.
To cleebrate his life, plan to attend this event
16th Inauguration Tribute to
John Hope Franklin:
Voices and Images of Liberation
Division of Fine Arts Presentations
Keynote Address:
Dr. Lonnie G. Bunch, Director
National Museum of African-American History and Culture
Ira Aldridge Theatre
6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
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April 4, 2009
History is fantastic and welcome to the most important part of the timeline.
We hope you like our update web site. Please browse and come back often for events, news and commentary.
Thanks!
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February 10, 2009
Black is a Primary Color
In Iraq, the African presence dates back at least 1500 years. In Southern Iraq, a large concentration of Black Iraqis are located in the Basra province. Just as in the southern United States, they face discrimination and are rallying for political and economic empowerment. Often called abd or slave, the Black Iraqis are less educated than the Arab population. They are institutionalized in the country’s celebrations, frequently hired as drummers and entertainers for celebratory events. Within their communities, they still practice and celebrate many African traditions including healing ceremonies
Inspired by US President Obama, the Free Iraqi Movement is advocating for a recognized minority status and protection of rights. They are actively participating in this year’s local elections. Stay tuned to international reports on the election results.
Resources
www.guardian.co.uk/world/2009/jan/26/iraq-black-elections-obama
www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=96977550
www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=4271003
Photo Credit: Corey Flintoff/NPR
Posted in Diaspora, History | 1 Comment »
January 25, 2009
In 1832, Augustus Jackson developed the modern method of manufacturing ice cream. Called the “Father of Ice Cream,” he was a chef in the White House before moving to Philadelphia. In addition, he developed several ice cream flavors. Jackson created a unique method of using ice mixed with salt to control ice cream temperature. However, he never patented his technique.
Source http://whatscookingamerica.net/History/IceCream/
IceCreamHistory.htm
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