West Virginia Delegates Proclaim February 3 as Freedom Day, Honoring the State’s True Emancipation History

Top (R-L): Pastor Matthew J. Watts, Leslie Dean, Katonya Hart, Pam Nixon, Crystal Good, Sally Roberts. Bottom: (L-R) Delegates: Shawn Fluharty, Mike Pushkin, Anitra Hamilton, Hollis Lewis, Sean Hornbuckle.

On February 2, 2024, a momentous event at the West Virginia Capitol House marked a significant milestone in West Virginia’s history. Delegate Hornbuckle, Minority Chair, presented a proclamation declaring February 3, 1865, as Freedom Day, commemorating the emancipation of enslaved individuals on this date in 1865. This proclamation is part of Black By God’s initiative advocating for “West Virginia’s Authentic Freedom Day: A Call for Governor Justice’s Accountability to Genuine History,” highlighting the importance of acknowledging West Virginia’s full history.

Delegate Larry Rowe introduced House Bill 4254 to make February 3 a recognized state holiday. This bill, currently under consideration, represents a significant step in honoring the African American community’s struggles and triumphs in the state’s history.

A special webinar hosted by Black Policy Day on Freedom Day, Saturday, February 3, 2024, at 10 AM, will delve deeper into this history. You can register for the webinar here: [Webinar Registration]. The session will feature speakers, including Delegate Larry L. Rowe, author Scott A. Mackenzie, and Historian John Muller, discussing the role of the Black Press during emancipation.

The proclamation ceremony, held on the eve of Freedom Day, gathered diverse community members, historians, delegates, and policymakers, all united in their commitment to honoring West Virginia’s rich and complex history.

The proclamation of Freedom Day signifies a pivotal moment in West Virginia’s history.

Learn more about this historic date with Pastor Matthew J. Watts, Charleston, West Virginia.