Art of Life/Donna Parker
Juneteenth Day Celebration
Juneteenth is the oldest nationally-celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. Two years ago, on June 17, 2021, President Biden signed legislation to establish the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, which officially introduced Juneteenth as a federal holiday. Now, it is officially a federal holiday, the nation’s 12th and the first new one since Martin Luther King Jr. Day was signed into law in 1983.
Today Juneteenth commemorates African American freedom and emphasizes education and achievement. It is a day, a week, and in some areas, a month marked with celebrations, guest speakers, picnics and family gatherings. It is a time for reflection and rejoicing. It is a time for assessment, self-improvement and for planning the future. Its growing popularity signifies a level of maturity and dignity in America long overdue. In cities across the country, people of all races, nationalities and religions are joining hands to truthfully acknowledge a period in our history that shaped and continues to influence our society today. Sensitized to the conditions and experiences of others, only then can we make significant and lasting improvements in our society.
The White House is planning to host its first-ever Juneteenth concert in honor and recognition of the newest federal holiday. The Juneteenth concert will be held on the South Lawn of the White House and features an impressive lineup that draws from the very best in arts and entertainment including singers, actors and actresses, hip-hop and HBCU cultures.
What exactly is Juneteenth?
Juneteenth, also referred to as Black Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, not only marks the abolition of slavery in the state of Texas on June 19, 1865, but is also a historic moment in American history and the culmination of President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation that was written three years prior. Texas had been opposed to freeing slaves, prompting a military operation led by Union troops to cause the end of slavery in the Lone Star state.
The cultural impact of Juneteenth is a resounding reminder of the country’s ugly past regarding the enslavement of Black people. The roots of the holiday started in the coastal Texas city of Galveston, which served as the theater for the Union’s seizure and possession of the state and still remains the central area where Juneteenth celebrations have continued for decades. Similar celebrations subsequently began sprouting
throughout the state — and across the country — where celebrants were using the day as an opportunity to reflect on the rich history and contribution of African Americans to the fabric of the country.
For many people in Texas, Juneteenth has long been seen as an Independence Day of sorts. It is celebrated as such by African Americans predominantly. However, it is still very much an unknown event in history to many African Americans and Anglo Americans. Although our history has been difficult, I have mixed emotions when I hear African Americans say this is “our” Independence Day. I understand the sentiment of wanting something that is ours. But I think it is important that we, as a country, continue to look for ways to learn and grow together.
Should we celebrate Juneteenth? Definitely! Should we also recognize that this and other events in history can be indicative of systemic racism? Absolutely! I believe our celebrations should include the joy of community, family and freedom. I also believe that these celebrations should be used as a platform for knowledge, education and civic involvement. This will help ensure that we are not left out again, or the last to know again. More importantly, this also helps us to promote the importance of having a seat at the table before critical decisions are made and not suffering after the fact.
Our job as a community is to support the education of our youth, ensuring they are aware of our past and present as well as our hope for the future.
