On June 19th 1865, word reached the enslaved in Galveston, Texas that their emancipation had been made formal, though it had been so since January 1, 1863. This is now known as Juneteenth, the day that commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States.
As the White House stated in their Juneteenth Procamation:
On June 19, 1865, freedom finally came for the 250,000 enslaved people of Texas. That day, which would become known as Juneteenth, the Army arrived to enforce what had already been the law of the land for two and a half years — the Emancipation Proclamation. Today, we recognize that Juneteenth not only marks the end of America’s original sin of slavery but also the beginning of the work at the heart and soul of our Nation: making the promise of America real for every American.
On June 17, 2021, President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, making June 19 a legal public holiday.
“America has never fully confronted its history and today serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight for freedom, justice and equity,” said Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. “Juneteenth is not just a federal holiday, but a recommitment to take the steps to fully realize freedom for Black people and to right the systemic wrongs that have long meant some communities are left behind. Today is a moment to reflect and to understand the profound journey of Black people in America and explore ways that we can make equity a reality.”
Slavery first began in America in 1619 and was legal for 256 years.
How can you celebrate in Los Angeles?
Juneteenth Celebration
Today, 1 – 2 PM
Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way
Long Beach, CA
Juneteenth “Unity Through Community” Concert
Wed, Jun 19 – Thu, Jun 20
1700 W 162nd St
Gardena, CA
Juneteenth Celebration & Resource Event
Sat, 8 – 11 PM
9300 Culver Blvd
Culver City, CA
More info about Juneteenth here: https://www.juneteenth.com/
