Many people may not know that President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation did not apply to enslaved people in states under Union control. Despite this, then-Military Governor of Tennessee, Andrew Johnson emancipated his own slaves on the 8th of August, 1863. This event set off a century and a half long tradition of freedom celebrations that continues today in East Tennessee. We’ll discuss the history of the 8th of August celebration, how it has spread and the changing ways communities recognize the hope for Freedom. Learn more about the 8th of August here. 

All registrants will receive a zoom link to the event.

About the Presenter: An East Tennessee native, William Isom II is the Director of Community Outreach at East Tennessee PBS & the Director of the Black in Appalachia project. In that role he coordinates the research, community database development, documentary film & photography production, oral history collection and educational events with residents, public media & universities in the region. He’s also the proud father of two sons, Devin & Isa.