January 1, 2013:

This is the 150th Anniversary of the historic Emancipation Proclamation of September 22, 1862, which went into effect on January 1, 1863.

The Proclamation was a milestone in the long struggle for equality and justice in our country. While not complete, it opened the doors for victory against slavery.

To commemorate this history; to use this occasion to remind us of the long and continuing struggle for an equal and just society, we call upon all municipalities and institutions to ring their bells for one minute at NOON on JANUARY 1, 2013.

Please join the Amistad Committee, Inc, the Town of Essex, the Connecticut River Museum and the Essex Historical Society in participating in this event by ringing bells from NOON to 12:01 p.m. on January 1, 2013.

-The Amistad Committee, Inc, Essex Historical Society, Connecticut River Museum and the Town of Essex