As we approach Juneteenth, a pivotal moment in American history, we invite you to join us in reflecting on the significance of this day and celebrating with friends and family.
Juneteenth, a contraction of “June Nineteenth,” stands as a testament to the resilience and triumph of the human spirit. It commemorates General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, in 1865 to enforce the emancipation of enslaved people.
Remarkably, this proclamation came two and a half years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation passed, highlighting the enduring struggle of African Americans for freedom and equality.
In Texas, where slavery persisted due to limited Union presence and remote geography, General Granger’s arrival heralded a new era of freedom for approximately 250,000 enslaved individuals.
Following the end of the Civil War, Juneteenth evolved into an annual tradition, known as “Jubilee Day.” Texas became the first state to officially recognize Juneteenth as a holiday in 1979. Finally, in June 2021, Juneteenth achieved federal recognition as a holiday.
Resources:
Juneteenth of PBC Collective ABOUT | JUNETEENTH OF PBC, INC (juneteenthpbc.org)
Florida’s Black Heritage Trail Online PDF Florida Black heritage trail : Florida. Department of State, Division of Historical Resources. : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive
Read about African American History in Florida African American History in Florida | VISIT FLORIDA
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