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Marietta celebrates 234th Anniversary of the Northwest Territory Ordinance
The Northwest Ordinance, officially titled "An Ordinance for the Government for the Territory of the United States Northwest of the River Ohio," was adopted by the Confederation Congress on July 13, 1787.
Dr. John E. Fleming was the keynote speaker for today's celebration program. Dr. Fleming served as director of the National Afro-American Museum and Cultural Center in Wilberforce, Ohio, from 1988-1998 and served on numerous boards and committees to develop and plan museums and exhibits focused on African American history.
Fleming, a North Carolina native, spoke about his connection to Marietta, Ohio and said: "When Ohio was celebrating its bicentennial some time ago, I was on the commission with Governor Nancy Hollister. We had a chance to visit Marietta several times to understand the important role that Marietta played in the development of the Northwest Territory. Since working with the Ohio Historical Connection, I also had a chance to come down several times to visit the various museums here. I think the history here is very important, but it is not very well known across the country."
Dr. Fleming expanded on the importance of educating communities about African American history.
"While some people feel that this history should not be told, we cannot understand who we are today without knowing that history," he said. "We cannot really resolve and solve our racial differences without knowing how we have become who we are today in order to be better people in the future."
Marietta Mayor Josh Schlicher also spoke at the event, and he shared his thoughts after the celebration.
"This is a great turn-out," he said. "For those that could not make it, they missed an excellent opportunity to learn our history. Every time I come to these events; I learn more. I love the history of Marietta and it is just amazing how Marietta played such a pivotal role in the expansion of the United States."
At the conclusion of WMOA's interview with Dr. Fleming, he added "When I was invited to come down, I asked why me because you have had governors, members of the Supreme Court and other distinguished people…so I was honored to have the opportunity."
Marietta celebrates 234th Anniversary of the Northwest Territory Ordinance
The ordinance is referred to as one of the leading human rights documents in American history.
