Dating back to June 19, 1865, Juneteenth was the first holiday to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas. Centuries later, participants in the United States and abroad are mourning and recognizing more than just those freed in 1865.
Juneteenth, which commemorates the complete abolition of slavery, was originally dedicated to the above event. Since the events of Black Lives Matter, nationwide protests, and the heartbreaking and disproportionate death of Black lives due to police brutality (including George Floyd and Ahmaud Arbery), Juneteenth 2021 has now become a national call for independence.
What is Juneteenth?
Juneteenth was first proclaimed on June 19, 1865, when previously enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, were declared free. This day not only symbolized independence and political freedom, but also a new way of life.
According to the Headquarters District of Galveston, Texas, June 19, 1865, the official report states:
“The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with the proclamations of the Executive Branch of the United States, all slaves are free. The freedmen are advised to remain quietly in their homes and work for wages; they are told that they will not be allowed to gather at military posts and will not be provided with support. ”
When Major General Gordon Granger, who issued the above order, gave this speech, he did not understand at the time the domino effect it would have on slavery and freedom. As commander of the Texas Department, he felt that he had little use in reporting to the chief executive. Especially since the 13th Amendment, passed by Abraham Lincoln and abolishing slavery, was on its way to ratification. However, Granger’s announcement put into effect the Emancipation Proclamation, which had been issued two years earlier in 1863.
June 19th, when this declaration was made, was combined to create Juneteenth. This day is also known as Juneteenth Independence Day, Freedom Day, or Independence Day, and should not be confused with Independence Day.
Photo credit: © Getty Images/Bulgnn
How is Juneteenth celebrated?
Over the years, Juneteenth has come to include prayer celebrations, family gatherings, and parades through the city, with families from all backgrounds coming together to remember the day. The New York Times (2021) even notes that some formerly enslaved African Americans are returning to Galveston to seize the day.
However, it wasn’t until 1872 that the holiday became popular. After 10 people who were former slaves formed a group, purchased 10 acres of land, and established Emancipation Park in Houston, the space hosted a celebration and inspired people around the world.
While many people today celebrate by cooking, eating out, and talking with friends, major cities like Atlanta and Washington are hosting more important events like parades and city festivals. The COVID-19 pandemic canceled such in-person celebrations last year.
Why is Juneteenth so important?
As the Black Lives Matter campaign and protests have gone global, it appears Juneteenth is about more than just commemorating a historic event. It is an essential and relevant holiday for the present and future.
This year, 2021, Galveston continues to lead by example and hopes this year’s celebration is the start of a trend that many hope will continue for decades. A 5,000-square-foot mural titled “Absolute Equality” will be dedicated, and the city will hold parades, picnics and other events. The holiday is on its way to becoming a national holiday, although some activities are curtailed due to COVID-19 measures still in place. June 11th is now the 11th national holiday and the second national holiday honoring freedom since the law was passed.
What is the significance of Juneteenth this year?
At a time when social unrest and demands for racial equality and justice are at an all-time high, it’s no wonder Juneteenth has emerged as one of the newly celebrated and anticipated holidays across the country.
June 15, 2021 marks more than just Texas’ independence from slavery. It marks a time, place, and season when individuals, regardless of skin color, race, or gender, were considered equal and the entire world aspired to respect that.
Juneteenth is celebrated and recognized worldwide. A three-day summit that will feature performers, health and wellness screenings, and educational activities will begin Friday in New York and will be attended by 5,000 to 20,000 people. In 2019, 5,000 people attended in-person, while in 2020, 20,000 attendees were recorded for virtual events. Meanwhile, in Washington, D.C., a presentation on its historical significance will be held at the Smithsonian Institution.
More than an important event, Juneteenth encourages participants to look beyond themselves and appreciate the freedoms they currently have or have fought to obtain. It’s a time to reflect, discuss, apply, and appreciate. Suggested activities include learning more about the movement through podcasts, books, videos, and events, and supporting African businesses through purchases and donations.
For decades, people like Martin Luther King Jr., Harriet Tubman, Abraham Lincoln, Maya Angelou, and Frederick Douglass fought for equality for African Americans. Today, major civil rights and justice activists continue to do the same.
Abolitionist leader Frederick Douglass once said, “I prayed for twenty years for freedom, but I never got an answer until I prayed with my feet.” It is the answer we all seek and strive for today.
resource:
PBS: What is Juneteenth?
History Channel: What is Juneteenth?
Curious about Juneteenth?
Celebrating June 1, 2021: What you need to know about the holiday
Congress passes bill making Juneteenth a federal holiday
Photo credit: © Unsplash/Richard Felix
Amber Ginter is a teacher-turned-author who loves Jesus, her husband Ben, and granola. Growing up, Amber looked for resources on faith and mental health, but couldn’t find anything. Now, she gives hope to young Christians struggling with mental illness that goes beyond just reading the Bible and praying more. Because even though we love Jesus, we can still be plagued by anxiety. You can download her top faith and mental health resources for free to help you navigate books, podcasts, videos, and influencers from a faith perspective. Visit her website at amberginter.com.
