Ringing bell to remember
Remembering the arrival of slaves in 1619.
“Let us unite as one on this day and show our appreciation for 400 years of African American history. We must embrace the West African concept of Sankofa, which teaches us we must go back to our roots in order to move forward.”
Terry E. Brown, Fort Monroe National Monument superintendent

We remembered and honored the first enslaved Africans who landed in English North America in 1619. Responding to an invitation from the National Park Service to churches and people around the country to commemorate and remember 400 years of African American History and Culture, we rang the Bells’ in synchrony with other churches and organizations throughout the country. The national bell ringing is among the Healing Day events being held at Fort Monroe National Monument (Virginia) to commemorate the 400th anniversary of that landing.
Beginning at 11:45 a.m., we gathered in the backyard for readings and prayer before Bell Ringing at 12:00 p.m. and we took turns ringing St. Luke’s bell.
       

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