Juneteenth: The History, Meaning, And Importance Of This Holiday
Today, we celebrate and officially recognize Juneteenth, the oldest known celebration honoring the end of slavery in the United States. After becoming an official Federal holiday last year, many Americans finally began to learn about the significance of this occasion, take time to recognize its place in our history, and reflect on the long struggle for equal rights.
To honor the holiday, we encourage you to take time to reflect, learn and educate yourself. Gaining a greater understanding of our past and the struggles of Black Americans can help all of us come together to forge a brighter future. Keep scrolling to see a brief history of the events we commemorate, why it’s important, and the ways you should celebrate.
What is Juneteenth?
Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. On June 19, 1865, a Union General rode into Galveston, Texas to announce that the Civil War had ended, and slaves had been freed. Though the Emancipation Proclamation became law in January 1863, it could not be enforced in places still under confederate control. Thus it took over 2 years for approximately 250,000 Texan slaves to learn their freedom had been secured by the government.
CLICK HERE and HERE to learn even more about Juneteenth. And check out this article for even more information on how Juneteenth is celebrated.
Why Is It Important?
Juneteenth is a federal holiday that marks a date of major significance in American history. It shows us that freedom and racial equality have always been a hard-fought battle for black Americans – a battle that continues to this day.
CLICK HERE to learn more about black history, and educate yourself on racial injustice and how to be an anti-racist ally. And check out our post Be The Change: Organizations & Resources To Fight Racial Injustice.
How Should We CELEBRATE IT?
There are many ways you can observe and celebrate this holiday, from supporting black businesses to educating yourself, spreading love, and being an antiracist ally. You can also take time to share the stories of Black Americans you admire, and learn about prominent black figures in American history.
CLICK HERE to learn more about 100 prominent Black Americans influencing culture and bringing about change.
Hi Bobby. I love your designs on queer eye.
If you guys are ever in Australia I would love to nominate my wife. I think the world of her but she has run into hard times in her past, and it affects her ability to work through challenges today. I knew about all her struggles but I married her anyway, because she is amazing. I would love to give her the confidence she needs to succeed through life. We have a 3 year old daughter and I think she worries about raising her as well. Please pop me an email if you are ever in Australia. She is the most impressed with your designs, even if I could pay you a fee for some training for her I would do it. Design I think is in her blood and a real passion for her, but it’s something she isn’t yet persuing.
Anyway, and email in hope I guess! Thanks again for the work you do 🙂
Thanks so much for your comment! It sounds like your wife has an amazing support system from her family. Sending you and your family all the love xx -B
Hi Bobby,
Thank you for sharing this important information about Juneteenth. I’m sharing with my family, friends, and professional networks. It’s important to know. I’d love to narrate any audio projects you might have. – Carmen
Thanks so much for your comment and sharing this story. I don’t have any audio projects at the moment but having one in the future would be very exciting! xx -B