Annapolis Commission on Maryland's Constitution of 1864 and the Abolishment of Slavery

In 2007 the Annapolis City Council introduced Resolution R-17-07, an apology by the Annapolis City Council for the practice of slavery and the contradictions of the principles of equality for every human being and the mistreatment of blacks and African Americans. The Annapolis City Council acknowledged the wrongs done by the government for supporting and maintaining the institution of slavery and mistreatment of African Americans. R-17-07 also included language recommending that residents participate in a time of reflection and education in the last week of October.

After 4 years with no activities directed as a time of reflection and education, the community lobbied the City of Annapolis to create a Commission whose direct objective would be to celebrate Maryland Emancipation.

On 2011 the Annapolis City Council unanimously adopted Resolution R-59-11 which established the Annapolis Commission on Maryland's Constitution of 1864 and the Abolishment of Slavery, ad-hoc to the Heritage Commission, ending their Commission at the 150th Anniversary of Emancipation, November 1, 2014. The purpose of this new Commission is to commemorate the understanding of the legacy of slavery in Maryland and the role of the Constitution of 1864 in abolishing slavery in the State of Maryland through educational programs, celebrations, lectures, and entertainment and the execution a city wide celebration of the anniversary of Maryland's 1864 Constitution and Emancipation Day. The Commission is compose of eleven different members, a cross-section of individual talents from the City of Annapolis, and Anne Arundel County. All members are appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the Annapolis City Council.