Liberation and Freedom Days Reparations Run/Walk 2026

Short review

Prolyfyck Run Crew and the Jefferson School African American Heritage Center are partnering to present the annual Liberation + Freedom Day Run/Walk.  We are raising funds to support organizations with Black leadership and support the community directly. The near 8 mile run and 4 mile walk allows you to engage with some of the City’s important sites of African American history, while passing some of the African American businesses along the way. 

About Liberation and Freedom Day:

Liberation and Freedom Day is a municipal holiday in Charlottesville celebrated on March 3, to commemorate the day in 1865 when Union Major General Phillip Sheridan and his troops arrived in Charlottesville - liberating over 14,000 enslaved people.  

About Jefferson School African American Heritage Center:

Located in the Jefferson School City Center, The Jefferson School African American Heritage Center’s mission is to honor and preserve the rich heritage and legacy of the African-American community of Charlottesville-Albemarle, Virginia and to promote a greater appreciation for, and understanding of, the contributions of African Americans and peoples of the Diaspora locally, nationally and globally.
The Center features a permanent historical exhibit, a rotating contemporary art gallery, and a robust calendar of events, all of which combine to highlight Charlottesville’s African American history and culture of the African diaspora.

About Prolyfyck:

Prolyfyck is more than a running community. To be Prolyfyck is a way of life, it's a culture. Prolyfyck’s main purpose is to work for the empowerment of those who support it, especially the historically marginalized Black and Brown communities. Our goal is to continue shedding light on the impact of racism, both past and present, rejecting those who would suppress or co-opt the talent of Black and Brown people, claiming ownership over their creativity. Instead, we encourage all to look deep within themselves to find their gifts and tap into their passions, working together with a spirit of unity and love to create a world where everyone can be Prolyfyck! 

Packet Pickup:

Pick up your bib and swag bag on Friday, February 27th at The Jefferson School Heritage Center from 4-6 pm. Bibs will also be available Sat, February 28th  before the start of the run/walk. We will be located outside of the JSAAHC Museum shop and Cafe (Entrance to the left of Pearl Island entrance).