For over a century and a half African American peoples have celebrated the anniversary of the emancipation of their enslaved ancestors. Although this historic turning point in American History is now designated an official holiday by many municipalities there is no standard ritual or tradition unifying it's observance. Not that there has to be any uniformity at all... One of the most interesting things I discovered in my research is the diversity of ritual depending on where you look in the U.S. For instance, the type of tradition generated by a community in rural Alabama where the physical remnants of slavery are still standing in the landscape will be completely different than one in Massachusetts which abolished slavery in 1783. That is to say that each place touched by slavery has its own unique stories to tell and in some places those accounts are more abundant and much better preserved. One can only conjecture how the first annaversary was celebrated, perhaps groups of freed slaves gathered to share oral accounts in the privacy of their homes, in their places of worship or perhaps they gathered to honor their ancestors who did not live to taste the unfamiliar sweetness of freedom. More than likely, the event was highlighted by group picnics including games and entertainment of all kinds. How will we celebrate this historic quantum leap of civilization today? I am not one for lugubrious events, whenever they can be avoided... I am sure that with the added liesure afforded former slaves who had been compelled to labor intensely from dawn to dusk under duress a little down time including good food, drink, music and song was the order of the day. Im banking on the very first Emancipations Day or Juneteenth Day celebration being a festive event interspersed with speeches and commentary from members of the community, both black and white, but a real celebration in its own right. Below is an 1860's engraving by Currier and Ives entitled, "Low Water in the Mississipi" which captures the spirit of what I imange that event to have been like. This print shows slaves dancing by the banks of the Mississippi, celebrating some event of unknown origin. A caricature perhaps but a period account of the ability of downtrodden people to find enjoyment in their complex lives.
The gentleman in the photograph below was freed after rescuing over 35 people from a fire in a Richmond theatre. In his hands he holds the tools of his respected trade. After being emancipated, freed slaves were at last able to earn wages for their skills. 70 years later African Americans would migrate north to find jobs in factories sometimes crossing picket lines and exacerbating hostility between themselves and striking white factory workers. After the great depression of 1929 Workers Unions would protect and unite both black and white workers. Workers Unions were a milestone in the social evolution of human beings.
Over the past 30 or so years I have witnessed a renewed interest in geneology among African American peoples. Documenting and Sharing the struggle of our ancestors is so integral to the preservation of our legacy and to the construction of a firm foundation within the context of the American Experience. Since both whites and blacks worked closely within the circles of abolition, the underground railroad and innumerable other sagas of heroic suffrage this is a platform that will bring us together in celebration of the deeds of our forbears. Emancipation day is not just a day of celebration for African Americans, it is a day for all Americans to celebrate the American spirit of freedom and struggle and the tradition of excellence, hard and honest work. Below is a photograph taken shortly after Emancipation.
What should Emancipation Day say to Americans? It should say that humans have the conscience and ability to bring forth positive change to human suffering and inequality.
Racism is a bitter legacy that continues to knaw the spirit of Equality and Democracy in America and this holiday we call Emancipation Day gives us a chance to develop strategies for healing and quelling racial strife. It is a soothing and reassuring event that identifies an indellible point of progress.
It is important that all Americans discover a positive humanitarian way to observe Emancipation Day so that traditions can be established that heal the deep wounds of racism for all races and creeds.
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