Decoration Day, now known as Memorial Day, has roots in a tradition established by Black-Americans in the aftermath of the Civil War. On May 1, 1865, the formerly enslaved, with profound gratitude for Union soldiers who fought and died for their emancipation, began commemorating that sacrifice by decorating Union graves. This remembrance and gratitude eventually gained support from communities across America.
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The observance of Decoration Day paved the way for the establishment of Memorial Day as a national holiday, honoring the fallen soldiers of all wars. It serves as a testament to the contributions and resilience of Black-Americans in shaping the traditions and narratives of American history.
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The United Daughters of the Confederacy played a significant role in minimizing the African-American founding of Memorial Day. As an organization whose aim was (and is) to promote the Confederate cause and maintain the Lost Cause narrative, they have tried to reshape the memory of the Civil War. They propagated the idea that Memorial Day originated solely from Confederate women's efforts, particularly in the South, to honor their fallen soldiers.
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Dr. D. Elisabeth Glassco
Grateful Dread