GreekChat.com Forums - What New Year's Eve Means to Me

How many of you know the history of New Year's Eve as it relates to the African-American experience?

Well, I have always prided myself on knowing my history. I had long heard of and participated in "Night Watch Service" at church since I was a young child. However, I never knew nor was told the significance of this night until recently. As usual when I hear something--I always research. After reading several articles and speaking to some old timers, I now have a renewed outlook on the meaning of New Year's Eve. Although I knew the Emanicipation Proclamation was signed by Lincoln on January 1, 1863, it never occurred to me the night before was so significant in anticipation of this most important event. I would like to know what you think?

I have placed below a couple of links. Please read it and pass it on because all people(Black, white, yellow, brown and purple should know this).
http://www.mealtime.org/news/fact_newyears.html
http://www.ucc.org/ucnews/dec99/night.htm