Catholic bishops share message on 160th anniversary of Maryland Emancipation Day

The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, also called the Baltimore Basilica. / Credit: Sergey Novikov/Shutterstock

CNA Staff, Nov 1, 2024 / 07:00 am (CNA).

Nov. 1 marks the 160th anniversary of Maryland Emancipation Day, remembering the day the Maryland Constitution of 1864 went into effect and officially abolished slavery in the state.

“This day, when all those still held in bondage were finally set free, is a profound reminder of the dignity of every human person, a dignity that the Catholic Church upholds as sacred and inviolable,” the Catholic bishops of Maryland; Washington, D.C.; and Delaware wrote in a joint statement.

The message was signed by Archbishop William E. Lori of Baltimore; Auxiliary Bishop Roy Campbell of Washington, D.C.; Auxiliary Bishop Evelio Menjivar of Washington, D.C.; Cardinal Wilton Gregory, archbishop of Washington, D.C.; Auxiliary Bishop Juan Esposito of Washington, D.C.; Auxiliary Bishop Adam Parker of Baltimore; Bishop William Koenig of Wilmington, Delaware; and Auxiliary Bishop Bruce Lewandowski, CSsR, of Baltimore.

The bishops remind the faithful in their message that “at the heart of our Catholic faith is the belief that each person is made in the image and likeness of God. Slavery, in any form, is an affront to this divine image, reducing human beings to mere property and denying them their God-given freedom.”

The 1864 decision made Maryland one of the earliest states to abolish slavery. This monumental decision came one year ahead of the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery and involuntary servitude in the United States and its territories.

Despite this victory, the bishops pointed out that “the work of justice is never complete.”

“The end of slavery was a monumental victory, but it also reminds us that freedom must be protected, matured, and expanded to ensure justice for all.”

The bishops also highlighted the fact that not only did the abolition of slavery restore the dignity of individuals but also “the sanctity of family life, which had been shattered by the horrors of slavery.”

“Families that had been torn apart, sold, and scattered could now hope to rebuild and thrive, standing as a testament to the power of human resilience and the grace of God,” they added.

Recognizing that the effects of slavery and racism continue to affect society today, the bishops reminded the faithful that “as Catholics, we are called to be active participants in the promotion of justice, standing against all forms of oppression and advocating for the rights and dignity of all. This day reminds us that freedom is a gift from God that must be extended to everyone without exception.”

They continued: “This day is not only a time to look back with gratitude for the progress made, but also a time to look forward, recommitting ourselves to the work of healing, reconciliation, and justice.”

The bishops concluded their message stating: “We stand in solidarity with all who are oppressed, working for a world where the dignity of every human life is recognized and upheld. Let this anniversary inspire us to be instruments of God’s peace, justice, and love, as we continue to journey towards true freedom for all.”