A comprehensive discussion of the history, role, and presence of Blacks in the White House, dating from 1800 to 2013, and the untold story of their contributions by Dr. Clarence Lusane; Professor of Political Science in the School of International Service, at American University

Overview

The District of Columbia Compensated Emancipation Commission develops plans, programs, projects and activities to celebrate the holiday and commemorate the District of Columbia Compensated Emancipation Act, signed by President Abraham Lincoln on April 16, 1862, that freed enslaved people in the District of Columbia. The Office of the Secretary is charged with the responsibility for organizing, planning and coordinating the District of Columbia Emancipation Day activities.

This DC Emancipation Commemoration Lecture Program presented by the National Park Service in collaboration with the Office of Councilmember VIncent Orange and DC Reading is Fundamental, Inc., features historian of the African diaspora,  C.R. Gibbs.  The lecture program, with a documentary film, remembers those who advocated for and abolished slavery; who fought for freedom in the U.S. Civil War Union Forces; and enslaved persons freed.  Tours of the Frederick Douglass home will follow the 2 -hour program.

The District of Columbia hosts a parade in honor the signing of the DC Compensated Emancipation Act of April 16, 1862, which freed 3,100 enslaved persons and ended slavery in the District.