Celebrating Juneteenth
June marks the month of change as individuals celebrate the 19th and its significant history. The annual holiday serves as a celebration of freedom and the emancipation of African Americans who had been enslaved.
On January 1st, 1863, the Emancipation Proclamation was distributed in various cities in the south, also known as Freedoms Eve. President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which declared that all individuals held as slaves in the rebellious states in the US were now free. However, not everyone in Confederate territory had their freedom right away. Texas was still under Confederate control, and slaves who lived in Texas became free on June 19, 1865, when 2,000 Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas.
Since then, 250,000 enslaved black individuals in the state were liberated by executive decree. That day is now known as Juneteenth, honoring the newly freed African Americans in Texas. Since then, the date had no official recognition by the government. However, President Biden would sign it into legislation to declare Juneteenth as a federal holiday in 2021. But as the event has held great significance throughout history, its recent affiliation into national events may lead to a misunderstanding of its lengthy existence.
“I think it’s important people understand our culture and what we represent, which allows people to remember our history and all the tribulations we have overcome,” said Deerfield Beach High School student Rose Valcourt.
Juneteenth is a newly established national holiday that remains a testament to the endurance and strength of freed slaves in America. Although no restitution befits the long and sinister history of slavery, Freedom Day is a moment to acknowledge, respect, and learn of the black figures who made emancipation possible. From the arduous paths of Harriet Tubman’s Underground Railroad to Frederick Douglass’ moving literacy, countless black voices have volunteered their capabilities to change society and achieve freedom. More so, Juneteenth also serves to remember those who had not been heard or lived to do so.
Although the holiday bears no popularity to the highly celebrated ones, it is just as crucial to acknowledge as a part of American history. There are many ways to demonstrate honor and respect for Juneteenth, including parades, marathons, and participating in or visiting Miss Juneteenth contests to celebrate outdoors. Indoor activities include decorating tables and doors with a Juneteenth theme, similar to DBHS’ Black History Month door decorating event, and discussing what it means today. Furthermore, supporting small black businesses or learning about certain aspects of black history also contributes to respecting the holiday.
Juneteenth, or Freedom Day, is a time to honor and value the day of liberation. Participants are welcome to understand its cultural significance, pay homage to freed slaves, and examine the change between then and now. Although its date may be finite, celebrating African American culture and the abolition of slavery is encouraged to continue.
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