By Bob Katzen

The House approved and sent to the Senate a measure, sponsored by Rep. Michelle Ciccolo (D-Lexington) designating July 8 as Massachusetts Emancipation Day also to be known as Quock Walker Day, in recognition of the court ruling that rendered slavery unconstitutional in the commonwealth. Walker, born to enslaved Black parents in Massachusetts, was the driving force behind this ruling.

“The inspiration for this bill comes from Sean Osborn, a Lexington resident and historian who founded the Association of Black Citizens of Lexington (ABCL),” said Rep. Ciccolo. “I am looking forward to annually commemorating Quock Walker’s significant place in our state’s history.”.