Why do the petitionar place so much emphasis on their loyalty to the Union during the war?

The petitioners place so much emphasis on their loyalty to the Union during the war because:

The emancipation Proclamation originated from the North (Union Government) This amendment freed slaves in the south.

Explanation:

The petitioners placed emphasis on the loyalty of the slaves because they wanted to prove that they were going to conduct the respective duties a "free men" had, therefore they were so strong in that argument. Because they wanted to let them know that benefits carried responsibilities and duties with them. Because they feared they would not exercise them and be very difficult to follow citizens' duties and responsibilities.