Appointed by Governor: Charles M. Christian, Ph.D., 2002; Clara L. Small, Ph.D., 2002; Iris C. Ford, Ph.D., 2003; Nikki DeJesus Smith, 2003; Ira Berlin, Ph.D., 2004; Agnes K. Callum, 2004.
Appointed by Senate President: Nathaniel J. McFadden
Appointed by House Speaker: Emmett C. Burns, Jr.
Ex officio: Edward C. Papenfuse, Jr., State Archivist; J. Rodney Little, Director, Maryland Historical Trust.
c/o State Archives
350 Rowe Blvd.
Annapolis, MD 21401
(410) 260-6401
e-mail: archives@mdarchives.state.md.us
fax: (410) 974-3895
Authorized in 2000, the Commission to Coordinate the Study, Commemoration, and Impact of Slavery's History and Legacy in Maryland formed in March 2001 (Chapter 316, Acts of 2000). To support the preservation, cataloguing, and presentation of cultural resources relevant to the history and legacy of slavery in Maryland, the Commission networks or communicates for mutual assistance and support with museums, private collections and cultural organizations, parks, and centers. In publicizing and seeking support for initiatives relating to the history and legacy of slavery (particularly those to benefit Maryland youth), the Commission works with grass roots organizations, foundations and government agencies.
Funds are targeted by the Commission to identify and maintain library and archival resources about the history and legacy of slavery; and produce guides and maintain on-line databases of relevant holdings, especially those not appropriately catalogued and documented. Historical sites in Maryland concerned with the history and legacy of slavery are identified by the Commission which monitors their preservation and development.
The Commission also is charged with advising the State on how best to support programs and initiatives to commemorate the middle passage, slavery, indentured servitude, and the underground railroad; and keeping the State informed of current research on the lingering affects of slavery and its legacy, including their impact on crime and crime control.
To oversee and monitor the allocation of public resources to sites and undertakings relating to the history and legacy of slavery in Maryland, the Commission works cooperatively with public and private tourist agencies and organizations. Additionally, the Commission ensures a fair allocation of resources for African-American businesses and institutions.
© Copyright April 10, 2001 Maryland State Archives