National Black Enslaved People Burial Grounds Recognition Day
National Black Enslaved People Burial Grounds Recognition Day
National Black Enslaved People Burial Grounds Recognition Day is an annual observance dedicated to honoring and preserving the memory of enslaved Africans and African Americans buried in unmarked or neglected burial grounds across the United States. It serves as a solemn reminder of the contributions, sacrifices, and resilience of these individuals whose lives were integral to the foundation of the nation.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: February 13th every year.
- Tagged as: Historical, Cultural, Memorial.
- What’s the hashtag?: #BlackBurialGroundsDay.
- When was it founded?: The specific founding year is not widely recorded but aligns with growing efforts in recent decades to recognize African American burial sites.
- Who founded it?: Advocates for African American history and preservationists, including organizations like the National Park Service.
History of National Black Enslaved People Burial Grounds Recognition Day
The day emerged from efforts to acknowledge the historical neglect of burial grounds for enslaved Africans and African Americans. Sites like the African Burial Ground National Monument in New York City highlight this history. Discovered in the 1990s during construction, this burial ground contained remains of over 15,000 individuals interred during the 17th and 18th centuries. Advocacy by scholars, activists, and community leaders led to its designation as a National Historic Landmark in 1993 and a National Monument in 2006. These efforts inspired broader recognition of similar sites nationwide.
Timeline
- 1690s–1790s: African Burial Ground in NYC used for enslaved and free Africans.
- 1991: Discovery of remains at the African Burial Ground during construction.
- 1993: Site designated a National Historic Landmark.
- 2006: Declared a National Monument by President George W. Bush.
- 2007: Memorial dedicated at the African Burial Ground site.
- 2024: Continued advocacy for recognition of unmarked burial grounds.
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | February 13 | Thursday |
| 2026 | February 13 | Friday |
| 2027 | February 13 | Saturday |
| 2028 | February 13 | Sunday |
| 2029 | February 13 | Tuesday |
| 2030 | February 13 | Wednesday |
Observed
National Black Enslaved People Burial Grounds Recognition Day is observed through educational events, memorial ceremonies, historical tours, and community gatherings. These activities aim to raise awareness about the history of slavery in America and the importance of preserving burial sites as sacred spaces.
Fun Facts About National Black Enslaved People Burial Grounds Recognition Day
- The African Burial Ground National Monument in NYC is one of the largest colonial-era cemeteries for Africans in America.
- The discovery of burial grounds often leads to significant archaeological studies that reveal insights into the lives of enslaved individuals.
- Many burial grounds remain unmarked or lost due to urban development.
Quiz
- What year was the African Burial Ground designated a National Historic Landmark?
- How many individuals are estimated to be buried at the African Burial Ground in NYC?
- What is the hashtag associated with this day?
(Answers: 1. 1993; 2. Over 15,000; 3. #BlackBurialGroundsDay)
FAQs
- Why is this day important?
It highlights forgotten histories and honors those who endured enslavement while contributing to building America. - How can I participate?
Visit local historic sites, attend educational events, or share information on social media using #BlackBurialGroundsDay.
Related
- African Burial Ground National Monument
- International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery
- Routes of Enslaved Peoples Project
- National Freedom Day
