Juneteenth is a celebration of June 19th, 1865 that commemorates the end of slavery in the South. While the Emancipation Proclamation was enacted on January 1, 1863, the law was not immediately enforced. Because of this, many enslaved African Americans did not know they were free until Juneteenth, over two years later.

It is important to note that it is possible for freedom and equality to be made law, but still not be achieved in society. There are still large racial gaps in education, healthcare, wages, wealth, and overall treatment in society. A bill was passed in the House and Senate this week to make Juneteenth a federal holiday. However, this bill has been criticized as being a symbolic victory rather than leading to any material and substantive change for the Black community. In the powerful words of Cori Bush:

“It’s Juneteenth AND reparations.

It’s Juneteenth AND end police violence + the War on Drugs.

It’s Juneteenth AND end housing + education apartheid.

It’s Juneteenth AND teach the truth about white supremacy in our country.

Black liberation in its totality must be prioritized.”

Juneteenth presents an opportunity to educate ourselves, and to renew our resolve to advance on our anti-racism journey, while actively supporting Black artists, scholars, businesses, and community members.