Savannah State hosts ceremony in honor of National Freedom Day

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Savannah State University students and leaders gathered for Freedom Day, a tradition deeply tied to the university’s history.

The annual ceremony recognizes a holiday founded by the school’s first president to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States.

Dozens of students, administrators, and community members gathered on Savannah State’s campus for speeches, poetry, and a wreath-laying ceremony honoring generations who fought for freedom.

Wreaths are traditionally used to recognize ancestors, and this year organizers placed one in front of the bust of Savannah State’s first president, Richard R. Wright Sr. The ceremony often includes Wright’s descendants, and this year his great-great-great-granddaughter participated.

“As we stand here in 2026, I believe it is significantly important that we understand and recognize the value of our freedoms,” said Carolyn Jordan, director of SSU Honors Program.

Wright’s legacy continues

University leaders say Wright traveled to Philadelphia in 1947, where he petitioned President Truman to mark February 1st as National Freedom Day, commemorating the ratification of the 13th Amendment abolishing slavery in the United States.

“So, since 1947 in the city of Philadelphia, this has been celebrated, scholarships have been raised for high school students, and here at savannah state university, we are carrying on that tradition,” said Jordan.

Today was the first of two events the school hosts to celebrate the milestone. Jordan said the main goal is to not only educate students about their history, but also to help prepare them for success.

“They’ll be bringing information about internships, about how to study for the MCATs, about how to become successful,” Jordan said.

For some students, these events also highlight how closely connected modern generations remain to the past.

“I just know when I was growing up, I didn’t know too much about history, about African-American history specifically, as it has never really talked to me or really showcased to me in any type of way,” said Addonis Hughes, SSU student.

“So that put me on a journey to want to know more about history and inspire me to know more about African-American history specifically.”

The second ceremony honoring National Freedom Day is scheduled for February 20th at Savannah State University as part of the continued celebration.