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Delaware Governor Backs Resolution Apologizing for Slavery


Ocea Thomas poses with a portrait of her ancestor, Samuel Burris, a free black man convicted of helping slaves escape in the 19th century. Gov. Jack Markell expects to pardon Burris, who died in 1863.
Ocea Thomas poses with a portrait of her ancestor, Samuel Burris, a free black man convicted of helping slaves escape in the 19th century. Gov. Jack Markell expects to pardon Burris, who died in 1863.

Delaware Gov. Jack Markell has announced his support for a resolution that condemns and apologizes for slavery.

On the 150th anniversary of the 13th Amendment's abolishment of slavery, Gov. Markell visited the congregation at Bethel AME Church Sunday morning, saying he joins House representatives in support of a joint resolution that will say Delaware denounces and deplores slavery.

Markell also addressed the effects slavery has had on the county. He says African-Americans can still feel the ripple effects of slavery today through challenges in the education system, prison system and society.

The resolution, sponsored by Rep. Stephanie Bolden and Senate Majority Whip Margaret Rose Henry, will be introduced during legislative session early next year.

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