Maryland Emancipation Day
SBGP was proud to support this event hosted by Youth Resiliency Institute (photo credit)!
On November 2nd, the Youth Resiliency Institute transformed South Baltimore’s Middle Branch Park Boathouse into a living museum in commemoration of the 160th anniversary of Maryland Emancipation Day. Check out the photos below!
More than 150 participants attended the event during the course of the day This event offered the public a free opportunity to activate Middle Branch Park while learning about and honoring the rich history of Maryland Emancipation Day.
The event included historical re-enactments, art making, music, a panel discussion, and more:
Female RE-Enactors of Distinction (FREED) re-enactor Lavonda Broadnax captivated the audience through dramatic readings and interactive participation, all while donning an elaborate bonnet and vintage clothing. FREED’s mission “is to educate the public and promote the accomplishments of the African American Civil War soldiers and the women who supported their fight for freedom.”
Furthermore, re-enactors portraying soldiers from the United States Colored Troops (USCT) were invited to participate in the event, where they discussed the contributions of African American soldiers during the Civil War and how their perseverance and sacrifices significantly impacted the abolition of slavery.
The Youth Resiliency Institute provided complimentary resource folders at the event celebrating Maryland Emancipation Day, showcasing the narratives of freedom seekers from South Baltimore, both historical and contemporary.
MARYLAND EMANCIPATION DAY EVENT PANEL DISCUSSION:
A distinguished panel of experts discussed the significant role that art can play in educating children and youth about freedom, resistance, and abolition in Maryland and beyond.
The Youth Resiliency Institute was honored to feature Asantewa Boakyewa, Senior Program Manager of Strategic Initiatives at the National Museum of African American History & Culture in Washington, D.C., as one of our panelists.
Additionally, Sean Yoes contributed to the discussion, bringing 35 years of extensive experience in television, film, radio, and print journalism. He has previously held positions as an editor and columnist for the AFRO American Newspapers in Baltimore.
The panel discussion was moderated by Fanon Hill, Executive Director and Co-Founder of the Youth Resiliency Institute.
*The Youth Resiliency Institute’s Maryland Emancipation Day Commemoration was held on Saturday, November 2nd to accommodate participants who were unable to attend a weekday event.
