
1639-2026 - BLACK VOTE MATTERS,
All Throughout Our History - Whether We Fought In America's Wars or We Changed America's Politics! Negro Election Day Was The Beginning
Our Leadership Speaks
-------WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO NEGRO ELECTION DAY STATE HOLIDAY AND THE BLACK COMMUNITIES’ LEGACY -----
Salem United Inc faced a significant setback when Negro Election Day's Festival and Parade was canceled, leading to decreased attendance and an unsuccessful attempt to replace the decade-long efforts of the original host.
Despite efforts to fight against the preservation of the traditions of Negro Election Day, the community's response was clear—they valued the longstanding legacy and wanted to maintain the event's original spirit, highlighting the importance of community involvement and continuity the original traditions.
​We must stand united in defending and preserving our cultural heritage, resisting any attempts to confiscate or diminish it, as our culture is the foundation of our identity and history.
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Join us on July 18, 2026, as we come together in unity to honor and celebrate our rich legacy, marking 387 years of resilience and community strength. This day is a powerful reminder of our history, culture, and the ongoing fight for recognition and equality. Let us stand proud and committed to preserving and uplifting our heritage for generations to come.
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We will announce our location for 2026 soon!
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Doreen Wade, President
Massachusetts Black Leaders 2024
Congratulations!
Doreen Wade, President of Salem United, has been named a Massachusetts leader in the Black and African American community based on nominations from the readers of MassLive. We are spotlighting nominees with Professional photos and profiles published in the coming month in recognition of Juneteenth.

WHO WE ARE
To Learn Who We Are And What We Do. It Starts With Us Working Together As One.
Wanting To Make A Contribution Of Support!
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About Us!
When Salem United, Inc. says our missions is to preserve, protect and build black history and build community engagement we use the term “Black” to show unity amongst those that identify with their African roots.
The African Diaspora of worldwide collection of communities and nations, made up of Brazil, United States, Haiti, Dominican Republic and Colombia.
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A new nation and culture of African descents emerged from tragedy and Negro Election Day is one of those cultures. So, I work to unify us in the African Diaspora through unity, pride and cultural truth.
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Who We Are!
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Salem United, Inc. is a 501c3 charitable organization established June 2020. Our history was enacted into Law through Bill S.2703 as a Massachusetts State Holiday and we come together to celebrate the voting work of enslaved men from 1639:
- EDUCATE, LEARN & APPLY
- SHARE OUR LEGACY TO UNITE
Motto: Roots & Wings
Mission: Preserve, Protect and Build.
Preserve its History
Protect its Tradition
Build its Customs and Social Awareness
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ORGANIZATION
Salem United, Inc. is a dedicated non-profit organization committed to preserving, protecting, and promoting Black history, emphasizing that Black history is an integral part of American history.
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The organization fosters a richer understanding of history and culture, ensuring that all voices are heard and celebrated in the ongoing effort to educate and inspire future generations.
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To ensure all generations feel connected to the 387-year-old event, we can create an inclusive and engaging experience that highlights its relevance across eras, such as exhibit and storytelling sessions. Incorporating contemporary themes and technology will help younger generations see themselves in the history, fostering a sense of continuity and shared heritage that resonates across time.
SALEM UNITED, INC STRUCTURE
Structure 1
Board of Directors, Officers
This is where the Executive work is done. All Board Officers take an extensive role in the rules and procedures of the Organization and deal with the work of the Corporation.
Salem United, Inc Director Doreen Wade works with the 5 Executive Officers and members monthly.
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Membership and Membership Development
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Membership is $30.00 for the year.
Salem United, Inc has many committees where the work begins and ends.
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Program 1: Negro Election Day Parade and Festival in Hinor Of
Negro Election Day State Holiday& Black Preservation
Program 2: Lecture Series & Education
Program 3: Voting Registration
Program 4: Negro Election Day Traveling Exhibit
Program 5: Events, Gala and Entertainment
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR PARTNERS, COLLABORATORS AND COALITIONS
Media:
N.E. Informer Newsmagazine
Partnerships, Collaborations, Coalitions
LIAISONS AND PARTNERSHIPS
John Burke, Salem Police Dept. Rep
Gina Flynn, Eastern Bank
Susan Russo, National Parks Service
COLABORATIONS AND COALITIONS
League of Women Voters Salem MA
Salem State University
Salem Superintendent of Schools
City of Salem, Arts and Cultural Division
North of Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau
Salem African American Tours Group, Inc
Epoch Preservation
Registry of Deeds
POLITICAL SPONSORS
U.S. Congressman Seth Moulton
State Rep. Manny Cruz
Senator Joan Lovely
Essex County D.A. Paul F. Tucker
Massachusetts Senator Brendan P. Crighton
Representative Bud L. Williams




