Emancipation Proclamation signing commemorated in Orrville

From the West Alabama Newsroom–

New Year’s Day is a day that many people spend looking forward towards the future — or reflecting on the year that was.

But some people in Dallas County — look back even farther.

On January 1st — 163 years ago — President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation.

It was a key step in the process of putting an end to slavery in the United States.

“There were many steps. But this was definitely a crucial step,” said Selma attorney and activist Hank Sanders.

“When the war ended because it was a war measure you still needed the 13th Amendment to abolish slavery.”

The annual program commemorating the historic signing was held at Siloam Missionary Baptist Church in Orrville.

“We had church groups, church organizations, we have community groups, politicians here, a combination of all people. Everyone is invited,” said organizer Cindy Owens.

“You celebrate to educate.”

The program is part of a continuing effort — to move forward without forgetting the lessons of the past.

“It is often said, that if you don’t remember the past then you’ll end up repeating the past,” said Sanders.

“When you stand on your history, you can see further and you can reach higher. And if you don’t stand on your history, your history will stand on you.”

The commemoration is sponsored by the Selma-Dallas County Emancipation Proclamation Committee.

The program also highlighted the life and legacy of Carter G. Woodson — the man known as the Father of Black History.

Woodson created Negro History Week in 1926 — which has now evolved into Black History Month.