06/19/2021
Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration that commemorates the abolition of slavery and the emancipation of Black people throughout the United States.
Around two and a half years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation was enacted, Union soldiers led by Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas. The soldiers were finally strong enough to influence and overcome the Confederate resistance which led to the surrender of General Lee in April of 1865. They delivered the news to the nearly 200,000 Texan slaves, who were the very last to be informed, that the war had ended, and that slavery was abolished. After that day, it became a tradition for African Americans to celebrate freedom every year around this time. June 19th was nicknamed Juneteenth, and it was celebrated in Texas and soon followed to other states.
Today there are still some very grand Juneteenth celebrations that can last for several days. The Juneteenth flag depicts a bursting five-pointed star on the horizon, serving as a reminder of the history, and freedom of the American Slaves and their descendants. Juneteenth continues to be a rich tradition that promotes education and self-improvement.
Happy Juneteenth!
The monument below honors the many contributions of African Americans in Texas. It traces the history of African Americans from the 1500s to the present. It includes representations of heroes such as Texas Revolutionary fighter Hendrick Arnold to leaders such as Barbara Jordan. The central portion of the memorial depicts Juneteenth in Texas: June 19, 1865, when African Americans were freed from the bonds of slavery.
Shown: Texas African American History Memorial. Erected in 2016 at the Texas Capitol ground.
