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Delaware Governor to Sign Resolution Apologizing for Slavery


FILE - Descendants of Samuel D. Burris, including Ocea Thomas, far left, and Ralph D. Smith, far right, look on as Delaware Gov. Jack Markell prepares, Nov. 2, 2015, in Dover, De., to posthumously pardon Burris, a free black man, for helping slaves escape to freedom in the 19th century.
FILE - Descendants of Samuel D. Burris, including Ocea Thomas, far left, and Ralph D. Smith, far right, look on as Delaware Gov. Jack Markell prepares, Nov. 2, 2015, in Dover, De., to posthumously pardon Burris, a free black man, for helping slaves escape to freedom in the 19th century.

Gov. Jack Markell will sign a resolution apologizing for Delaware's role in slavery and wrongs committed against blacks during the Jim Crow era.

Along with signing the resolution passed by state lawmakers last month, Markell on Wednesday will present a proclamation recognizing African American History Month. He also will help unveil an exhibit commemorating the 125th anniversary of historically black Delaware State University.

DSU President Harry Williams and state archivist Stephen Marz were among those scheduled to be on hand for the ceremony at the Delaware Public Archives building.

The resolution apologizing for slavery is a symbolic measure aimed at promoting "reconciliation and healing."

The resolution specifically states that it is the General Assembly's intent that it not be used in, or be the basis for, any litigation.

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