The DC Compensated Emancipation Act of 1862 ended slavery in Washington, DC, freed 3,100 individuals, reimbursed those who had legally owned them and offered the newly freed women and men money to emigrate. It is this legislation, and the courage and struggle of those who fought to make it a reality, that we commemorate every April 16, DC Emancipation Day. For more details and the complete list of activities, visit http://emancipation.dc.gov/.
The DC Government will be closed on Tuesday, April 16 in observance of Emancipation Day.
Bates Area Civic Association 