Governor Janet Mills proclaimed today, Monday, July 13, 2020, Ashley Frederick Bryan Day in honor of world-renowned author and illustrator Ashley Frederick Bryan. Governor Mills issued the following statement:
“Ashley Frederick Bryan has enriched the lives of countless people in our state, our country, and our world. For generations, his art has uplifted the voices, cultures, heritage, and experiences of African-Americans, from the shores of Omaha Beach on D-Day to the shores of Little Cranberry Island, Maine. As a soldier, a teacher, an author and illustrator, a philanthropist and a resident of the State of Maine for over sixty years, Mr. Bryan has taught us to celebrate the unique spirit of every person and, together, to create a brighter future for us all. I hope the people of Maine will join me in wishing Mr. Bryan a very happy 97th birthday and in honoring his many remarkable achievements and contributions to our state.”