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UPDATE: The Town of Federalsburg announced on its Facebook page that Unity Day is postponed due to weather forecast on Sept. 27. The Mayor and Council will select a new date at their Oct. 6 meeting.
FEDERALSBURG – “Historically, this country has had many ups and downs, as well as Federalsburg. Part of mending past mistakes is owning them and the reconciliation of those mistakes. While free food and activities may not mend or have a concrete physical result…it certainly can create an environment to allow conversations to be had to move the ball forward in that direction.” These are the words of Federalsburg Town Council member Ian Ferguson. He was reflecting on the upcoming Unity Day celebration in Federalsburg, which was established (and required) by a federal lawsuit.
“The origins of Unity Day stem from a federal Voting Rights Act lawsuit brought by the NAACP and local residents challenging Federalsburg’s historic at-large election system,” said Brandy James, another member of the Town Council. “The case resolved in 2023 with a consent decree requiring structural election reforms and specific community-building measures. Unity Day was incorporated into the settlement as an annual event to promote inclusion, civic engagement, and healing after decades of disenfranchisement.”
Because of the stipulation in the lawsuit, “Unity Day is not optional.” James said that despite any financial struggles Federalsburg may find itself in, “It is a mandated element of the federal settlement and therefore must continue each year as a condition of the court-approved agreement.” The approximately $5,000 event is paid for by money in the town’s budget specifically set aside for Unity Day, as well as donations from individuals, organizations, and local businesses. “Importantly, this funding plan requires no new taxes and no unanticipated municipal expenditures,” James added.
Though it is a legal requirement, Council members emphasized their commitment to the spirit of Unity Day. The inaugural Unity Day in 2024 “exceeded expectations,” according to James. “Attendance was strong, families enjoyed a full day of music, food, and children’s activities, and residents shared stories of Federalsburg’s past and hopes for its future. Most importantly, people left feeling connected and heard.”
“For 2025, we plan to build on the successful framework of last year’s Unity Day, honoring our shared history while focusing on a more equitable and inclusive future,” James said, “Last year reinforced the importance of early, broad community involvement. We learned to engage local businesses and faith leaders from the outset, and to plan activities that invite participation across every ethnicity, generation, and neighborhood.”
This year’s Federalsburg Unity Day is scheduled for Saturday, September 27, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Federalsburg Marina & Park. “We will have multiple activities and food provided,” said Ferguson.
