Publisher's Synopsis
My grandpa is my best friend, and he is great in every way!" Malik's Nana overheard the boys singing: 'Grandpa is my favorite guy.' She asked the boys why they made up that song. Tony told Malik's Nana that he was planning a surprise birthday party for his grandpa. Malik's Nana explained that planning a birthday party was a big project and Tony cannot do it alone. He would need help to make the party successful. She asked Tony on what date his grandfather was born. Tony said that his grandpa was born on June 19th; the same date that slaves were freed in America. Malik's Nana said, "President Abraham Lincoln called on the Union Army to liberate the slaves. On June 19, 1865, the Union Army General Gordon Granger declared the freedom of slaves in Texas. Since then, every year on June 19, the 'Freedom Day' is celebrated throughout the United States." Edward E. Meredith was the first police officer of color to work in the Newton Police Department. Edward worked hard to be appointed to the Newton Police Department in Newton, Massachusetts. His Baby Gadsden Meredith filed a lawsuit against the Postal Services in approximately 1979 and won his lawsuit in 1986. On August 30th, he was appointed to the Winchester Massachusetts Postal Service. Their Nephew Keith Meredith carries his uncles legacy as an Union Repersentive fighting for the rights of Mail Carriers.
