Freedom Day returns: Savannah State announces new dates for historic ceremonies

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - A powerful tradition tied directly to Savannah State University’s history is returning to campus, now with newly scheduled dates for the community to attend.

SSU’s Honors Program will host two free public events in observance of National Freedom Day, a holiday founded by the university’s first president, Richard R. Wright, Sr.

The first event, a wreath-laying ceremony led by SSU President Dr. Jermaine Whirl, will take place February 13 at 1 p.m. at the Richard R. Wright, Sr. bust in front of Wright Hall on the campus at 3219 College Street.

A second ceremony will follow on February 20 at 6 p.m. inside the King Frazier Student Center Ballroom. The keynote address will be delivered by Professor Stacey Scales of Georgia State University, a longtime educator in African American Studies and an accomplished Afrobeat-jazz musician.

Wright, who became SSU’s first president in 1890, later helped establish National Freedom Day to commemorate President Abraham Lincoln’s signing of the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery in the United States. This year marks the 161st anniversary of that historic milestone.

University leaders say the annual observance continues to honor Wright’s vision while inspiring new generations to reflect on the meaning of freedom.

Both events are open to the public.

Read our previous coverage: www.wtoc.com/2026/01/23/savannah-state-honors-national-freedom-day-with-wreath-laying-ceremony/