Governor Lamont Chooses the Amistad as Backdrop
for Historic Bill Signing Ceremony in New London
Governor Ned Lamont presided at a press conference and bill-signing ceremony on June 10 on the dock where the Amistad is tied up in New London Harbor. With a dozen State Representatives, Senators, Community Leaders and the Secretary of State looking on, the Governor signed Public Act 22-128, which established "Juneteenth Independence Day" as a Legal Holiday in Connecticut. Following the ceremony, the Governor and other dignitaries were treated to a special tour of the ship led by Chris Menapace, Director of Education for Discovering Amistad.
The event was organized by Representative Anthony Nolan, who represents New London in the House of Representatives. Other State Representatives in attendance included Hubert Delany of Stamford, whose father sailed on the Amistad 20 years ago.
Media accounts of the event can be found here:
The Day – New London | CT Mirror – Hartford
