06/19/2026
On June 19, 1865, more than two years after the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation, Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced that enslaved people were free. This day became known as Juneteenth.
Juneteenth is a powerful reminder that the promise of freedom was not immediately realized for all Americans. It marks both a celebration of liberation and a reflection on the long journey toward equality and civil rights.
As we commemorate Juneteenth, we honor the resilience, perseverance, and contributions of generations of Black Americans who helped shape our nation despite extraordinary challenges.
Understanding our history helps us better appreciate the progress that has been made and recognize the work that remains. Today is an opportunity to reflect, learn, and reaffirm our commitment to creating a more equitable future for all.