In America’s history, there are celebrations that stand as a reminder of the nation’s journey toward freedom. One such celebration is the National Freedom Day. But should African Americans mark this observance? Continue reading to find out.
Overview of National Freedom Day
National Freedom Day is a United States celebration on February 1. The observance marks the signing by the US former Abraham Lincoln of a joint House and Senate resolution that was later approved as the 13th amendment to the United States Constitution.
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President Lincoln signed the bill abolishing salary on February 1, 1865, although the states didn’t approve it then till later. Then in the mid-20th century, Major Richard Robert Wright began to push for a day when the freedom of all Americans will be celebrated.
He invited local and national leaders to meet in Philadelphia to plan to make 1 February an annual remembrance day for the signing of the 13th amendment to the US Constitution.
A year after Major Wright’s death in 1947, the two houses of the United States Congress passed a law to make February 1 the National Freedom Day. President Harry Truman signed the observance proclamation into law on June 30, 1948.
After President Harry Truman signed it into law, it became the forerunner to Black History Day, which was officially recognized in 1976. Get one or two of these books from Amazon to learn more about President Harry Truman.
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Reasons Why African Americans Should Celebrate National Freedom Day
But why should you as an African Americans celebrate National Freedom Day? Here are the 3 reasons:
Marks a Historical Milestone
National Freedom Day is a special day for African Americans. It’s the anniversary of the signing of the United States 13th Amendment that abolished slavery. So, celebrating this anniversary means observing the day African Americans regained freedom from bondage and suffering. Here are history books on Amazon that help you learn about African American struggles.
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Symbolizes Progress
When slavery was abolished, African Americans became free to live life on their own terms, build homes, and chase careers, which was a sign of progress. All of that was possible because the US 13th Amendment bill was signed.
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So, observing National Freedom Day means that you recognize the work that past black leaders put in to make the dream of abolishing salary a reality.
Encourages Unity and Solidarity
Without unity and speaking with one voice, the African American leaders who fought for the freedom of the black race wouldn’t have been able to do it. The National Freedom Day celebration reminds you that with unity and one voice, black people can continue pushing for a better and prosperous African American community where everyone gets the treatment they deserve.
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How Do You Celebrate National Freedom Day As an African American?
If you’re thinking of how to get involved in the celebration of National Freedom Day, here’s a list of things you could do:
- Use #NationalFreedomDay to make posts on your social media accounts.
- Educate people about the US 13th Amendment.
- Write or talk about National Freedom Day on a podcast or video and share it with your contact.
- Attend the observance ceremony
National Freedom Day is a day for African Americans to celebrate and be happy. The day marks the beginning of freedom and progress for black people in the United States. So, it’s important for you to get involved in any way you can. You get a branded T-shirt on Amazon to mark the celebration.
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