Michael Lee Burton Placed in History

Freedmen Historical Marker Award – January Campaign Winner

The Freedmen Reparations Fund Trust is proud to formally recognize Michael Lee Burton as the highest donor from the January fundraising campaign that concluded on January 31.

Through his leadership contribution, Michael has earned a permanent Freedmen Historical Marker, institutionalized and archived within the governed historical record of the Trust.

This marker is not simply a symbolic plaque. It represents:

• Institutional support for Freedmen-led governance

• Investment in protected historical infrastructure

• Direct participation in structured institution-building

• Public affirmation of Freedmen continuity and legacy

Michael’s dedication reads:

“This is dedicated to the Burton family, our ancestors and all those who made the Black American/Freedman identity, lineage, history and culture what it is. Always & forever, Michael Burton.”

With this contribution, Michael Lee Burton is permanently recorded as a leadership supporter of the January campaign — a donor who chose to build what lasts.

The Freedmen Historical Marker initiative exists to document those who materially strengthen the institutional framework protecting Freedmen history. These markers form part of a growing archive that reflects governance, continuity, and structured advancement.

History is not only remembered.

It is governed, recorded, and built.

The Freedmen Reparations Fund Trust thanks Michael Lee Burton for his leadership and contribution to this historic moment.