“Juneteenth has never been a celebration of victory, or an acceptance of the way things are. It’s a celebration of progress.” – Barack Obama
Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. On June 19th, 1865, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed, enslaved African Americans were finally notified of their freedom.
Texas became the first state to celebrate the holiday in 1866; however, it was not until 2021 that Juneteenth was declared a federal holiday. Juneteenth marks our country’s second Independence Day, representing freedom, liberation, and equality. Traditionally, celebrations include parades, performances, cookouts, religious gatherings, and more.
A testament to the ongoing fight for change, this Juneteenth is an opportunity for reflection and activism. Happy Juneteenth Day!
“Juneteenth may mark just one moment in the struggle for emancipation, but the holiday gives us an occasion to reflect on the profound contributions of enslaved black Americans to the cause of human freedom.” – Jamelle Bouie
