Juneteenth

Juneteenth: Reflecting on Our Past to Shape a More Just Future

Every year on June 19th, communities across the United States celebrate Juneteenth, a day that marks a pivotal moment in American history—the emancipation of the last remaining enslaved African Americans in the Confederacy. Growing up in Galveston, Texas, the very place where General Order No. 3 was announced in 1865 declaring all slaves free, Juneteenth was not just a local commemoration; it was a profound reminder of our nation’s complex history. The significance of this day goes beyond the celebration of freedom; it serves as a stark reflection of America’s original sin: slavery.

The Necessity of Federal Recognition

Juneteenth is now recognized as a federal holiday, not only to honor those who suffered under the brutal institution of slavery but also to affirm our national commitment to civil rights and equality. Federal recognition has elevated this day of remembrance, ensuring that as a Federal Holiday, it is observed by all Americans. This acknowledgment reaffirms our national commitment to addressing the historical impacts of slavery that continue to influence societal structures today.

Confronting Our Foundational Flaws

The celebration of Juneteenth forces us to reflect on the paradox of American liberty—how the same founders who penned profound truths about human rights could simultaneously perpetuate slavery. By officially recognizing Juneteenth, we are prompted to examine our own understanding and biases regarding contemporary issues like immigration and gender rights. If some of the most revered figures in American history failed to recognize the immorality of slavery, we must ask ourselves: what injustices might we be overlooking today?

Learning from History

Juneteenth is not merely a historical marker but a lens through which we can reevaluate present-day injustices. It compels us to question how deeply ingrained societal norms—much like those that sustained slavery for centuries—may persist under the guise of tradition or legality. It is a day to challenge the status quo by reflecting on historical wrongs and considering their modern equivalents.

The Role of Education

An integral part of celebrating Juneteenth involves education. Schools, communities, and institutions have a responsibility to teach the history of slavery and its abolition in a manner that underscores its impact on current social, economic, and political landscapes. Understanding the journey from emancipation to the ongoing struggle for civil rights is crucial for fostering an informed citizenry ready to engage with contemporary social justice issues.

Juneteenth and the Let.Live Philosophy

At Let.Live, our commitment to promoting tolerance, understanding, and justice aligns with the principles embodied by Juneteenth. Recognizing this day at a federal level would not only honor the memory of those who lived under the shadow of slavery but also reinforce our dedication to a future where such injustices are never repeated. It would signal a readiness to confront uncomfortable truths about our past and work towards rectifying the inequalities that persist.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

As we continue to celebrate Juneteenth, let us do so not only in commemoration of a historical victory over oppression but also as a reaffirmation of our ongoing commitment to justice and equality. Let’s use this day to reflect on our past, educate ourselves and others, and inspire action that addresses the legacy of slavery and its current manifestations. By recognizing Juneteenth as a federal holiday, we take a significant step toward healing and unity, demonstrating that America is committed to confronting its past and shaping a just future for all its citizens.

Let Juneteenth be a day of remembrance, education, and forward movement. In this recognition, we find not only reconciliation but also an impetus to mold a nation that truly upholds the dignity and rights of every individual.

–Dan Fishman, Executive Director, Let.live