National Archives to Launch 150th Anniversary Celebration Supported By Lead Sponsor Verizon Foundation

WASHINGTON, Dec. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The Foundation for the National Archives announced today that the Verizon Foundation will be lead sponsor of the National Archives' 150(th) Anniversary celebration of the Emancipation Proclamation.

The Verizon Foundation has presented the Foundation for the National Archives with a $150,000 grant in support of the anniversary celebration, which kicks off a year-long series of events and programs at the Archives. These activities include special exhibits of President Abraham Lincoln's original Emancipation Proclamation, as well as related family activities, panel discussions, author lectures and film programs.

A Host Committee for the year-long celebration will be chaired by Congressman and civil rights leader John Lewis.

"We are thrilled that the Verizon Foundation has agreed to serve as lead sponsor of this exciting year of 150(th) Anniversary events celebrating one of the most important documents of American history," said A'Lelia Bundles, President of the Foundation for the National Archives. "This generous gift will enable the Foundation to support our partners at the National Archives by promoting the rare display of President Lincoln's original Emancipation Proclamation and introducing new audiences to the incredible work of the Archives."