On August 24, 2024, Historic Sotterley hosted its annual Day of Unity and Healing, themed "Together We Can Make a Difference." This event, which kicks off regional International Underground Railroad Month festivities, aims to foster collaboration among descendants, historic sites and communities to preserve and interpret history transparently. It is held contemporaneously with UNESCO’s International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition.
President Tuajuanda C. Jordan attended the event, highlighting the College’s long-standing partnership with Historic Sotterley. Kelsey Bush '94, the College’s community affairs liaison and a member of the descendant community of Historic Sotterley, emceed the opening ceremony. The ceremony featured several presentations, including a keynote address by Mary Elliott, curator for the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Elliott's address focused on preserving history, fostering unity and building a community based on understanding and care.
Several Sotterley staff and volunteers with SMCM connections were recognized during the event. Professor of Anthropology and George B. and Willma Reeves Endowed Chair in the Liberal Arts Julia King was recognized for her archaeological work. Emerit Professor of Theater and Dance Merideth Taylor was recognized for her work, including the Telly Award-winning short documentary “Sotterley: Talking and Walking Common Ground.” Katherine Humphries '06, interpretive programs manager for Historic Sotterley, was recognized for her contributions to the organization, which have included overseeing numerous SMCM interns over the years.
Following the presentations, attendees moved to the unveiling of the Middle Passage Historic Highway Marker. This marker is part of a State of Maryland initiative to recognize the 52 documented Middle Passage port sites across the United States. Historic Sotterley has been identified as one of these sites for over a decade.
The program concluded with the dedication of the Sacred Space at Historic Sotterley, an area believed to be the burial site of enslaved individuals. This space is currently under investigation. Several speakers delivered remarks, and Kelsey Bush delivered the closing address.
