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What is Juneteenth?
Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, is an annual holiday celebrated on June 19 to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. It marks the day the Union Army General, Gordon Granger, arrived in Galveston, Texas, in 1865, to announce that the Civil War had ended and enslaved individuals were now free.
The Emancipation Proclamation, issued by President Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863, declared enslaved people in the Confederate states to be legally free. However, due to the ongoing war and limited Union control, the news and enforcement of this proclamation reached different parts of the country at different times.
But on June 19, 1865, General Granger’s announcement in Texas brought the news of freedom to the last remaining enslaved people in the United States. This event became known as Juneteenth, combining the words “June” and “nineteenth.”
Why does Juneteenth matter?
Juneteenth is a significant milestone in American history, symbolizing the end of slavery and the beginning of a new era of freedom for African Americans. African American communities have celebrated it since its inception, and in recent years, it has gained broader recognition and observance across the country.
Traditionally, Juneteenth celebrations include various activities such as parades, music performances, storytelling, readings of the Emancipation Proclamation, historical reenactments, and community gatherings. It serves as a time for reflection, education, and celebration of African American culture, resilience, and achievements.
While early celebrations began in Texas in 1866 and then spread across the South, a growing movement developed over recent years to recognize Juneteenth as a national holiday, acknowledging its historical significance and promoting greater understanding and awareness of the legacy of slavery and the ongoing struggle for racial justice in the United States.
We are honored to celebrate this national holiday at Grace Hill by closing our offices and giving all employees a paid holiday.
Why Juneteenth is important to us.
Emancipation and Freedom: Juneteenth marks a significant milestone in American history, symbolizing the end of slavery and the beginning of a new era of freedom.
Historical Significance: Juneteenth serves as a reminder of the complex and painful history of slavery in the United States. It highlights the struggles and resilience of African Americans who endured the horrors of enslavement and the ongoing fight for equality and justice.
Celebration of Culture: Juneteenth provides an opportunity to celebrate African American culture, heritage, and contributions to American society. It is a time for African Americans to come together, reflect on their shared history, and honor the achievements and progress made despite the obstacles faced.
Education and Awareness: Observing Juneteenth encourages education and awareness about the legacy of slavery, racial discrimination, and the ongoing fight for racial justice. It provides an opportunity to learn about the struggles and triumphs and fosters a deeper understanding of the inequalities that persist today.
Unity and Community Building: Juneteenth is a time for communities to unite and foster dialogue that serves as a catalyst for conversations about dismantling racism, promoting inclusivity, and working toward a more just society.
Recognition and Acknowledgment: The growing recognition and observance of Juneteenth as a national holiday or day of observance is an important step towards acknowledging the history of slavery and its ongoing impact on American society. It demonstrates a commitment to addressing historical injustices and working toward a more equitable future.
As we reflect on the significance of Juneteenth and the events leading up to its commemoration, it becomes clear that Juneteenth holds immense significance as a day of remembrance, celebration, and education. In honoring the perseverance and sacrifices of our ancestors, we must also remember that there is still work to be done.
And through our collective efforts, we can work toward a future that honors and upholds the principles of freedom to achieve racial equality and justice for all.
