Celebrating Juneteenth: A Day of Freedom, Unity, and Reflection

Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, Jubilee Day, or Emancipation Day, is a holiday that commemorates the day that Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, on June 19th, 1865, and announced that all enslaved individuals were free. This announcement, which came over two years after President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, secured the freedom of the last enslaved individuals in America. Juneteenth represents the end of slavery and the long journey towards freedom and equality.

Juneteenth is a celebration of African American culture, heritage, and accomplishments. It is a day that recognizes the resilience and perseverance of African Americans throughout history. In African American communities, Juneteenth is celebrated with parades, barbeques, music, dancing, and public speeches. It is a day to come together, to reflect, to honor ancestors, and to celebrate freedom.

Moreover, Juneteenth is a day that emphasizes education and awareness. Juneteenth celebrations often include educational events, historical reenactments, and guest speakers discussing the significance and history of the day. It is an opportunity to learn about the contributions and sacrifices made by African Americans throughout history and to educate oneself on the ongoing fight for equality and justice.

Juneteenth also serves as a reminder of the work that still needs to be done towards racial justice and equality. It is a day that highlights ongoing challenges and struggles that African Americans continue to face. Juneteenth is not just a day of celebration, but also a day of reflection and activism. It is a day to work towards improving the lives of African Americans and fighting for racial equity.

Juneteenth is a day that holds great significance for African Americans and all those who have fought for freedom and equality. It is a day to celebrate the end of slavery, honor the past, and look towards the future. Juneteenth is a day of unity, reflection, and progress. As we celebrate Juneteenth this year and in years to come, let us continue to work towards a world where all individuals are treated equally, with respect and dignity.

Join us this fall as we continue that work at the fourth annual Racial Justice conference in Montgomery, Alabama. This conference includes a visit to the Legacy Museum and the National Memorial for Peace and Justice as well as a special performance of American Son. 

Registration available at https://www.publicdefenders.us/ev_calendar_day.asp?date|EQUALS|10/30/2023&eventid|EQUALS|545
Full schedule available at https://napdracialjusticeconference2023.sched.com/

Additionally, don't forget to pick up your racial justice shirts. All proceeds go towards scholarships and technical assistance for your fellow public defenders.

• SKIN COLOR IS NOT A CRIME 

• Stand and Speak – Bryan Stevenson Quote

We invite you to learn more about the holiday and Black history:

• Equal Justice Initiative on Juneteenth: https://lnkd.in/g3hGUAvC
• Music is Black History: https://lnkd.in/gMHpTDyk
• The Man Who Relives Slavery Through Food: https://lnkd.in/gYXDeF4Q
• Black National Anthem "Lift Every Voice and Sing:" https://lnkd.in/gGDU29AB
• Amanda Gorman's "The Hill We Climb:" https://lnkd.in/gCki_7mM
• Maya Angelou's "Still I Rise:" https://lnkd.in/gBTVhCXb