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National Reading of the Names

Join Us for a National Reading of the Names Honoring the United States Colored Troops

In Commemoration of Veterans Day and the Grand Reopening of the African American Civil War Memorial Museum.

The African American Civil War Memorial Museum proudly announces a Reading of the Names event to honor the United States Colored Troops (USCT) as part of our Grand Reopening celebration and in recognition of Veterans Day.

We invite individuals, organizations, and communities across the country to participate in this solemn tribute in one of two ways:

  • Join us in Washington, D.C. for the official reading at the African American Civil War Memorial on Tuesday, November 11, 2025.
  • Adopt a Regiment and host a local reading in your own community.

Each regiment will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis to ensure no duplication. Any regiments not adopted will be read at the main ceremony in Washington, D.C.

Before registering to Adopt a Regiment, please review the Reading Guidelines carefully. This form is intended for groups, organizations, or individuals interested in hosting a local reading.

To RSVP for the Grand Reopening events and participate in the national reading in Washington, D.C., please visit our website: www.afroamcivilwar.org.

Join us in Washington, D.C. for the official reading

RSVP:

    I am attending and would like to be a reader at the Grand Opening in Washington, DC.

    Reading of the Names Guidebook
    Reading of the Names Guidebook by Frank Smith

    Host a local reading in your own community

    Each regiment will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis to ensure no duplication. Any regiments not adopted will be read at the main ceremony in Washington, D.C.

    See the Reading of the Names Guidebook (left) for community groups, organizations or people who would like to host a reading in their community.

    Adopt a Regiment

    FAQs

    What is the Reading of the Names?

    The Reading of the Names is a national commemorative event honoring the more than 200,000 members of the United States Colored Troops (USCT) who fought for freedom and Union during the Civil War. As part of the Museum’s Grand Reopening and in recognition of Veterans Day 2025, names from the USCT Wall of Honor will be read aloud in Washington, D.C., and in communities across the country.

    When and where is the event taking place?

    The main event will be held on November 11, 2025 (Veterans Day) at the African American Civil War Memorial in Washington, D.C. Community readings may take place on the same day or during local Veterans Day celebrations.

    How can I participate?

    You can participate in two ways:

    1. Join the main reading in Washington, D.C. by RSVP’ing on the Museum’s website.
    2. Host a reading in your own community by adopting a USCT regiment and organizing a local event.
    How do I adopt a regiment?

    Visit www.afroamcivilwar.org and complete the “Adopt a Regiment” form. Regiments will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis and will not be duplicated.

    What do I receive after adopting a regiment?

    Each community site will receive:

    • The historical background of your assigned regiment
    • A curated list of names to read
    • Official reading protocols
    • USCT contextual information
    • Branding and promotional guidelines
    • A social media toolkit
    Can I choose a specific regiment?

    You may request a specific regiment when registering, but assignments are based on availability and regiments will only be assigned to one community.

    What are the responsibilities of a Community Host Site?
    • Form a local Host Committee (minimum of 3 people)
    • Organize and promote your local event
    • Recruit readers for your program
    • Record your reading (live or pre-recorded)
    • Submit audio/video to the Museum
    • Handle any local event costs or logistics
    What if I don’t have experience organizing public events?

    The Museum will provide clear guidelines, resources, and support to help you plan your reading, even if it’s your first time organizing a community event. You may partner with other organizations, descendants of USCT soldiers, genealogy groups, etc. Let the Museum staff know and we can help connect you with a group to host your event.

    Will our community reading be recognized by the Museum?

    Yes! All participating sites will be included in a national press campaign, featured on the Museum’s website, and receive social media support and recognition.

    Is there a cost to participate?

    There is no fee to adopt a regiment. However, each site is responsible for managing and funding their own local event logistics.

    Can schools, churches, or student groups host a reading?

    Absolutely. We welcome participation from schools, houses of worship, veterans’ groups, libraries, and other civic organizations. Anyone who wants to help honor the legacy of the USCT is encouraged to take part.

    How long does a reading take?

    Each regiment includes approximately 1,000 names. The time required will vary based on the number of readers and the format of your event, but typically it takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour for a group of 20 readers or less to read one regiment.

    Where can I find updates or get more information?

    All updates, resources, and registration forms can be found at www.afroamcivilwar.org. You can also contact the Museum directly with questions at info@afroamcivilwar.org. The Museum will host multiple question-and-answer sessions open to the public via Zoom. You don’t have to attend all of the Q & A sessions, just one is fine.

      • August 14, 2025, 3 PM Eastern
    • September 4, 2025, 7 PM Eastern
    • September 25, 2025, 3 PM Eastern
    • October 11, 2025, 1PM Eastern
    The African American Civil War Memorial Museum honors the heroic roles of 209,145 US Colored Troops (USCT) who helped end slavery and kept America united under one flag.

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