Tuesday, April 16th marked the 157th anniversary of the day that slavery was legally abolished in D.C., freeing over 3,000 enslaved people living in the District - a crucial turning point in the history of American slavery.
To commemorate the date, this year ONE DC, in collaboration with We Act Radio, held a Freedom School in Southeast, focusing on elements of D.C. history not taught in our public schools. Residents of all ages participated in lively discussions and educational workshops throughout the day. We were joined by special guests historian Dr. C.R. Gibbs, who spoke on the history of slavery in the District; breathologist Ayo Handy-Kendi, who lead a community meditation session to honor our ancestors and find peace with their memory; and director Mignotae Kebede, who discussed her new documentary "What Happened 2 Chocolate City", which was screened at the event.
Read The Washington Informer coverage here.
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| Participants reflect on issues of education and housing |
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| Historian C.R. Gibbs leads a lesson on D.C. history |
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| Participants hold small group discussions |