June 19th, 2024
Today is Juneteenth
Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation freeing the slaves. On January 1, 1863, the Emancipation declared that all enslaved persons in the Confederate States of America in rebellion and not in Union hands were freed. However, the word did not reach Texas. Slavery had remained relatively unaffected in Texas—until U.S. General Gordon Granger stood on Texas soil and read General Orders No. 3 on June 19, 1865.
General Orders No. 3: “The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them becomes that between employer and hired labor. The freedmen are advised to remain quietly at their present homes and work for wages. They are informed that they will not be allowed to collect at military posts and that they will not be supported in idleness either there or elsewhere.”
The name “Juneteenth” is a blend of two words: “June” and “nineteenth.”
“Our ancestors’ wildest dream” is the theme of a local Juneteenth event. It’s amazing to think of just how far the African American community has come. To think about how vastly different my life is from my great grandmother’s is astounding.
When we celebrate Juneteenth, it’s a celebration of freedom and mourning the lives lost in slavery. Celebrate our progress and keep moving forward. There are plenty of ways to celebrate Juneteenth. There are lots of events taking place in your area. Even if you do not attend an event, take a moment to reflect. I hope you all have a wonderful Juneteenth!