06/19/2026
On June 19, 1865, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation and months before the ratification of the 13th Amendment, the last enslaved Black Americans in Galveston, Texas learned of their freedom. One year later, on June 19, 1866, formerly enslaved Black Texans gathered to commemorate that day. Today, 160 years later, what began as a local celebration has grown into a national holiday honoring Black resilience, resistance, liberation, and joy.
Juneteenth is an opportunity for all of us to deepen our understanding of our nation's history, reflect on the work that remains, and recommit ourselves to building a more just future.
For the LGBTQ+ community, Juneteenth also reminds us that none of our movements exist in isolation. The fight for equality has always been strengthened by those living at the intersection of multiple identities. Black LGBTQ+ leaders, activists, artists, and community members have helped shape the progress we celebrate today, often while facing the combined impacts of racism, homophobia, and transphobia. Their courage, advocacy, and vision continue to move all of us forward.
As we celebrate Juneteenth, we honor the generations who fought for freedom, recognize the ongoing work of justice, and celebrate the Black voices, leaders, and changemakers whose contributions have helped build both the Black community and the LGBTQ+ community we know today.
Happy Juneteenth.
