The recent protests and demands for justice for black Americans have highlighted the importance of being the voice of change in seeking justice and equality for all. As a way to demonstrate our commitment to racial equality, we take this opportunity, this year and forevermore, to recognize and celebrate a date of major significance in American history, Juneteenth, the most popular annual celebration commemorating the end of slavery in the U.S.
It was on this date, June 19, 1865, in Galveston, Texas, more than two years after President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, Union troops arrived and delivered the message to the slaves in the deepest parts of the former Confederacy that all slaves are free. It was at that moment the newly freed slaves rejoiced and celebrated. These freed men and women adopted June 19, “Juneteenth” as a day to celebrate freedom and African Americans have been celebrating this day for many decades.
It is our hope that on this historic day that is culturally important to so many Americans, you have an opportunity to celebrate, educate, and reflect.
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