Historian Smallwood returns to Asheboro library for Juneteenth talk

ASHEBORO – The history and importance of Juneteenth, which commemorates the 1865 proclamation announcing the end slavery in the United States, is the topic of a talk by Dr. Arwin Smallwood at the Asheboro Public Library, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, June 15.

Smallwood, chair of the History Department at North Carolina A& T State University, will talk about the impact of enslavement not just on African Americans, but on all Americans, and the historic effort require to abolish it. He will draw attention to slavery in North Carolina, and the over 5,000 African Americans, Native Americans and white people who fought to end it.

He also will explain why the celebration of Juneteenth brings a strong sense of pride about the commitment that African Americans have made to the betterment of their lives and those of their children, grandchildren and future generations.

Smallwood’s talk is free and the public is invited.