Here's a reason to ring in the new year: 150 years ago on New Year Day, the Emancipation Proclamation came into effect and all slaves in the rebelling states were declared forever free. Celebrate the men and women who struggled against slavery, and look forward with hope that one day all mankind will be forever free.
source: Library of Congress
The National Archives will hold "Watch Nights" following a tradition that dates back to 1862 when abolitionists waited in congregations on the night before, for word that President Lincoln had officially signed the proclamation as he had promised during his initial proclamation speech in September 1862, after the Battle of Antietam. In the wake of so much tragedy this year, it is good to remember reasons to hope. This year's trials and tribulations have caused me to reflect on my values and ponder the definition of justice. What does it mean to seek justice, to be free, and what rights must we protect to ensure liberty for mankind?
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