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Perrysburg changes name of Harrison Rally Day after learning the president owned slaves

The chamber of commerce's research showed William Henry Harrison was a slave owner; event now known as Positively Perrysburg Fest.

PERRYSBURG, Ohio — Perrysburg's fall festival is back after a year off due to COVID-19, but with a new, more inclusive name.

After celebrating "Harrison Rally Day" for many years, the chamber of commerce is announcing its return as the "Positively Perrysburg Fest."

Chamber President Sandy Latchem issued this statement:

"The Perrysburg Area Chamber of Commerce has been coordinating Harrison Rally Day for many years. We’ve had a year to think about the event and to review its historical relevance. The truth is, given last summer’s unrest over statues honoring people with questionable backgrounds, we decided to delve into the life of William Henry Harrison. 

"His father and grandfather were slave owners while he waffled, first joining the abolition movement and then arguing for the right of states to decide. We want to have a positive vibe for this annual festival. We don’t want to associate it with a person whom we now know supported slavery."

"I definitely think that progress is something that takes a lot of people to make a change, so taking a small step even such as this just a name change could go a long way for some people," said Matt Radford, a barista at The Bard's Coffee in downtown Perrysburg.

Latchem said the board of directors supported the idea. Mayor Tom Mackin is also in agreement with the name change.

"As a community we want to be as welcoming as possible," Mackin said. “The event was started in the 1990s to build community and bring people together. It has by all accounts been a huge success. Now, the Chamber has done some research showing President Harrison owned slaves. 

Keeping his name in the event would not help achieve the event's goal, so changing the name makes sense. I support the Chamber for doing its homework and making a decision based on facts. I also look forward to celebrating Perrysburg's heritage this fall.”

"I love the fact that were being inclusive to everyone and we're allowing people to express themselves in however way they need to express themselves and feel that they can walk around comfortably and be part of a community that is accepting and loving," added Radford.

Owner of Alice-Louise Press in downtown Perrysburg, Amy Lesniewicz, said she understands it's going to upset some people, but you have to keep moving forward.

"You're never going to make everybody happy, but moving forward is what's natural," said Lesniewicz.

The Positively Perrysburg Fest is set for Saturday, September 18 with a parade, craft and business booths, music and food.

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