Celebrate Juneteenth With Us!

On June 19, 1865, the Emancipation Proclamation stated that all enslaved people were declared forever free. But it was until December of that year when slavery in the United States was officially abolished with the adoption of the 13th amendment. After 1865, people had to decide to stay or move on, mostly to the north and to the unknown, during the following years June 19th became a day to gather with remaining family members, remember, come together and try to feel reassured since life did not become easier with the growing pressures that African American communities encountered in their new territories or situations.

Juneteenth is a date to commemorate, as well as a time to contemplate on the work contemporary society needs to focus on to remove systemic barriers and inequities that still exist today.

Today, Juneteenth has gained tremendous growth and recognition, it is a time to celebrate and honor Black and African American communities!

Honor and celebrate Juneteenth by:

• Learning more about Juneteenth.
• Attending local or statewide Juneteenth celebrations.
• Supporting Black-owned businesses and organizations.
• Looking up different people and organizations that work against any form of oppression in the world.
• Sharing your findings, thoughts, and experiences with family & friends!

Let’s remember that while highlighting a day or a month is very significant, this sentiment of honor and recognition should be present all year long!

Suggested resources:

• The National Museum of African American History and Culture at the Smithsonian (NMAAHC) — online collection
• YouTube Video: Why all Americans should honor Juneteenth
• YouTube Video: What is Juneteenth, and why is it important?
• Recordings: Voices Remembering Slavery: Freed People Tell Their Stories (Library of Congress)
• Article from the NMAAHC: The Historical Legacy of Juneteenth
• Podcast showcasing Ibram X. Kendi - The Juneteenth Mixtape