Jackson Davis, 12, is working hard to get York, an African-American slave on the Lewis and Clark expedition, featured on a U.S. Postal Service (USPS) stamp. Jackson learned about York while studying the famous expedition.
A quick history lesson: From 1804 to 1806, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark explored the American West. York was the only black man on the journey and was an important part of the team. He helped the other explorers make friends with Native AmericansJackson discovered that Lewis, Clark and Native American guide Sacagawea had all been recognized on stamps. But not York.
Jackson sent the USPS a proposal to have York featured on a Black Heritage Series stamp in 2013. “Stamps are the most visible piece of art,” Jackson told TFK. “What better way to honor York than this?”
To gain more support, the Maryland sixth grader wrote letters to his congressman Chris Van Hollen and other lawmakers. Several wrote back, including President Barack Obama!
The USPS Citizens’ Stamp Advisory Committee recently sent Jackson a letter that his proposal for a 2013 Black Heritage Stamp “is under consideration.”
Either way we think this kid is AWESOME!
