Today, we recognize Juneteenth. This day is significant because it is the day the last of the slaves in America (Texas, June 19, 1865) were notified about the Emancipation Proclamation, and finally freed — two and a half years after it was signed.
This day is not often taught in most US schools, but many in the Black community are familiar with this day and its importance. The general mindset behind honoring this day over the day the Emancipation Proclamation was signed is because the enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation was a slow process. Many slave owners were not eager to yield to it. We celebrate Juneteenth as the day all slaves were finally able to exercise their right to freedom.
In this age of instant access to information, pause to reflect on those captives who were kept in the dark for SO long, with their right to freedom withheld for others’ gain.
We remember those still oppressed and acknowledge oppressive systems. We honor those who fight injustice, inequality, and inequity so all may be free.
Find updated for 2023 graphics to share today here:
