The Charleston Area Branch of ASALH welcomes community submissions for our Community Events Calendar, a space dedicated to sharing programs, gatherings, and initiatives that highlight African American history, culture, and education. Whether you’re organizing a lecture, cultural festival, book talk, or historical commemoration, we invite you to submit your event for consideration. Our goal is to provide a central hub where community members can stay informed and engaged with meaningful events throughout Charleston and surrounding areas. All submissions will be reviewed for alignment with ASALH’s mission before being added to the calendar. Thank you for helping us connect, educate, and celebrate African American heritage together!
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Annual Emancipation Day Celebration
The Emancipation parade celebration has been held in Charleston since 1865, making it the most consistent parade in the United States. The Parade’s purpose is to celebrate the signing of the Proclamation by President Abraham Lincoln to “forever free all slaves in southern states”. The document was signed and announced January 1, 1863 as the nation approached its 3rd year of the bloody civil war. Moreover, the Proclamation announced the acceptance of Black men into the Union Army and Navy, enabling the liberated to become liberators. Conditions permitting, the parade will assemble on Thursday, January 1, 2026, at Burke High School and disband at Liberty Square. We are asking everyone, descendants and friends, to help us make this day a grand celebration. Let us highlight our rich African heritage with pride.
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