CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) - Charleston celebrated Emancipation Day with a parade and a post-program. The nation's longest-running parade made a return in honor of the Emancipation Proclamation, which was declared Jan. 1, 1863 by President Abraham Lincoln. This liberated African Americans from slavery. Charlestonians and visitors lined up along the route, waving at those in the parade. "Charleston has a rich history when it came back to slavery, people being enslaved, so it's our chance to reach and share that we are not enslaved now," Robert Crawford, parade organizer, said. "We need to come back and help our families and our community." Though Crawford said this isn't just a parade, it's a time to come together and reflect on the past and future. "I'm extremely happy to see us celebrate this parade with joy and vigor, knowing that we bring new energy to the table. It's a good chance for us to unite, but at the same time to plan for the future and how we go forward," Crawford said. "And know now that we are free, but have some responsibilities to our community." The parade ended at the International African American Museum. In partnership with the Charleston Emancipation Proclamation Association, the museum held a program that included speakers and community leaders. They discussed the importance of emancipation, had performances, and a ceremonial reading. The IAAM featured complimentary admission, games, activities, and vendors. "To make sure we are finding ways to engage in these conversations, that in some cases are happening, and others need more cooperation and sort of effort toward making that happen," Brandon Reid, public historian of the IAAM, said. "It's very important for us to come in and celebrate Emancipation Day, MLK Day, some of these large holidays that allow us to take a moment to think about and talk about African American history."