The DC Compensated Emancipation Act of 1862 ended slavery in Washington, DC, freed 3,100 individuals, reimbursed those who had legally owned these individuals and offered the newly freed women and men money to emigrate. It is this legislation, and the courage and struggle of those who fought to make it a reality, that we commemorate every April 16th, DC Emancipation Day.
Here is what you need to know for this year’s Emancipation Day Celebrations on Friday:
STREET CLOSURES
Please be advised that the following streets will be closed for the Emancipation Day festivities:
Pennsylvania Ave NW (North & South) between 13th – 14th St. NW
PARKING
We encourage attendees to utilize the Metro for their Emancipation Day traveling needs. Should you desire to drive, the following parking facilities are within a 2 miles radius and available for use:
One Freedom Park/QuikPark
560 13th St. NW
Colonial Parking Garage
1201 Pennsylvania Ave. NW
On street meter parking is also available.
METRO
Freedom Plaza is accessible by Metro Bus (D3, D6, 11Y, 52,32,36) and Metro Rail (Blue/Orange Lines: Federal Triangle; Red/Orange/Blue Lines: Metro Center)
ACCESSIBILITY
Wheelchair accessible entrance to Freedom Plaza is located on the corner of 14th Street and Pennsylvania Ave NW, across from the JW Marriot Hotel entrance. For additional assistance, please call (202) 671-0066.
