Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States.
Juneteenth is a significant date in American history and the African American experience. The name is a play on the date of June 19th, 1865. On that day, the Union Army made its way into Galveston, TX, under the leadership of General Gordon Granger, and he announced to the people of Texas that all enslaved African Americans were free.
Even though we know that the Emancipation Proclamation freed African Americans in rebelling states—Texas being one of them—it still took a while for freedom to make its way to the westernmost rebelling state. Although there were enslavers who were aware of the implementation of the Emancipation Proclamation, it wasn’t until June 19th, 1865, that it was actually enforced by the Union Army.
Juneteenth has a complicated history, and even in the present, people take issue with how we honor this day. President Joe Biden signed the bill into law on June 17, 2021, making Juneteenth the eleventh American federal holiday and the first to obtain legal observance as a federal holiday since Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day was designated in 1983. It wasn’t performative but a way to honor the past. Texas has had a Juneteenth celebration for many years before it became a national holiday. For me, Juneteenth is about fostering education, reflection, and action toward racial equity.
Today, Juneteenth is celebrated across the country with parades, festivals, music, food, and community gatherings. It’s a time for people of all backgrounds to come together, learn from each other, and celebrate the diversity that enriches our nation.
At its core, Juneteenth is a reminder of the progress we’ve made as a nation and the work that still lies ahead. It serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring us to continue striving for justice, equality, and inclusivity for all. It’s a day to acknowledge the injustices of the past while reaffirming our commitment to building a more equitable future.
In embracing Juneteenth, we embrace the spirit of resilience, hope, and unity that defines the American experience. Let us honor the past, celebrate the present, and pave the way for a brighter future for generations to come. Happy Juneteenth!