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Happy Emancipation Day, Washington, D.C.!

Activists stand vigil at the "Liberty Pole." (Tom Williams/CQ Roll Call)
Activists stand vigil at the "Liberty Pole." (Tom Williams/CQ Roll Call)

Emancipation Day: It’s not just about the “Liberty Pole” D.C. activists erected in front of the Capitol Wednesday. Today’s District holiday commemorates the 1862 act that ended slavery in the District, and includes official events such as concerts, a parade and a fireworks display. It also includes a series of events at Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital, the Benjamin Drummond Emancipation Day Celebration , a four-day event, spanning everything from poetry readings to a walking tour.  

Co-producer and resident scholar Sharita Thompson told HOH the events are designed to “cater to different demographics” and a “wide range” of topics.  

All of the events are free, but tickets are needed. To reserve a ticket, visit Hill Center’s website .  


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