Emancipation Proclamation to Permanently Grace National Archives with Boeing's Support
In a historic announcement, the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) has revealed plans for the Emancipation Proclamation to be permanently exhibited at its headquarters in Washington, D.C., starting in 2026. This initiative, made possible through a generous commitment from The Boeing Company to the National Archives Foundation, marks a significant step in preserving and highlighting pivotal documents of American history.
The Emancipation Proclamation, a landmark executive order issued by President Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863, during the American Civil War, declared the freedom of all enslaved persons in Confederate-held territory. Recognized globally as a symbol of freedom and equality, its inclusion in the National Archives' permanent display underscores its enduring importance in the narrative of American democracy.
This historic document will join other foundational texts of American governance inside the Rotunda of the National Archives Building. Alongside the Emancipation Proclamation, visitors will have the opportunity to view the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution of the United States, and the Bill of Rights. This placement ensures that the Emancipation Proclamation is honored alongside documents that embody the principles of liberty and equality upon which the United States was founded.
The commitment from The Boeing Company to support this initiative highlights the corporate sector's role in preserving and promoting American heritage. Boeing's partnership with the National Archives Foundation underscores its dedication to fostering educational opportunities and promoting civic engagement through access to these historic documents.
The decision to display the Emancipation Proclamation permanently is part of NARA's mission to safeguard and share America's history with present and future generations. By providing a permanent home for this pivotal document, the National Archives reaffirms its commitment to fostering a deeper understanding of the nation's complex history and the ongoing pursuit of equality and justice.
As preparations continue for the 2026 unveiling, anticipation grows among historians, educators, and the public eager to witness this momentous occasion. The permanent exhibition of the Emancipation Proclamation promises to enrich the educational experience of visitors to the National Archives, offering a tangible connection to the struggles and triumphs that have shaped the American experience.
In conclusion, the forthcoming permanent display of the Emancipation Proclamation at the National Archives Building, supported by The Boeing Company, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of freedom and equality in American history. This initiative ensures that future generations will have the opportunity to reflect upon and draw inspiration from one of the nation's most pivotal documents, ensuring its significance is preserved for years to come.
Original article:
I am happy to announce that the Emancipation Proclamation will be on permanent display at the National Archives Building in 2026. This display is supported by a commitment from The Boeing Company to the National Archives Foundation. It will be encased inside the Rotunda with the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution of the United States, and the Bill of Rights.
https://www.archives.gov/press/press-releases/2024/nr24-33
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