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Delaware governor signs resolution apologizing for slavery

By RANDALL CHASE, Associated Press
Published: February 10, 2016, 1:00pm
2 Photos
Delaware Gov. Jack Markell, right, stands with state legislators, from left, Rep. J.J. Johnson, Rep. Sean Lynn, Sen. Margaret Rose Henry, Sen. Brian Bushweller and Rep. Stephanie Bolden, after signing House Joint Resolution 10, which apologizes for the state's role in slavery Wednesday at the Delaware Public Archives in Dover, Del. Markell also presented a proclamation recognizing African American History Month.
Delaware Gov. Jack Markell, right, stands with state legislators, from left, Rep. J.J. Johnson, Rep. Sean Lynn, Sen. Margaret Rose Henry, Sen. Brian Bushweller and Rep. Stephanie Bolden, after signing House Joint Resolution 10, which apologizes for the state's role in slavery Wednesday at the Delaware Public Archives in Dover, Del. Markell also presented a proclamation recognizing African American History Month. (AP Photo/Steve Ruark) Photo Gallery

DOVER, Del. — Gov. Jack Markell has signed a resolution apologizing for Delaware’s role in slavery and wrongs committed against black people during the Jim Crow era.

Along with signing the resolution passed by state lawmakers last month, Markell on Wednesday presented a proclamation recognizing African American History Month.

He also helped unveil an exhibit commemorating the 125th anniversary of historically black Delaware State University.

The resolution is a symbolic measure aimed at promoting “reconciliation and healing.” It states that it’s the General Assembly’s intent that it not be used in or for litigation.

According to the resolution, legislatures in eight other states have apologized for roles in slavery.

Nationally, congressional resolutions apologizing for slavery have passed separately in the House and Senate. But they’ve never been reconciled into a single version.

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