Durham County reads resolution designating Jan. 1, 2025, as Emancipation Day

The Durham County Board of Commissioners read a resolution designating Jan. 1, 2025, as Emancipation Day and heard remarks from community stakeholders, who urged the county to pair the observance with ongoing investments in racial equity programs.

The resolution, read aloud during the Dec. 12 meeting by Vice Chair Dr. Lee, traces Emancipation Day observances in North Carolina back to Jan. 1, 1865, when freed people held public readings and processions in Union-occupied New Bern. It says the observance “honors a legacy of resilience” and encourages residents, businesses and institutions to mark the day with reflection and events.

The county received public comment from Dawn Page, founder of Concerned Black American Citizens, who thanked the board for accepting the proposed resolution and urged follow-up work on economic and procurement support for historically underutilized businesses. “We are eager to work with Durham County and our dedicated community allies to ensure these initiatives receive the fiscal support and collaborative engagement needed,” Page said.

Commissioner Jacobs thanked Page and other community partners, noting that the resolution and accompanying materials educated her about the history of Emancipation Day in North Carolina. Commissioners offered supportive remarks but the meeting transcript does not record a formal motion or roll-call vote adopting the resolution.

The reading and public comments occurred during the regular session under the agenda item titled for the Emancipation Day resolution. The transcript indicates community groups and local stakeholders helped prepare the text and one-page summaries of the observance for public distribution.