Celebrate Safely
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Juneteenth 2025 marks a historic milestone for all Americans: the 160th anniversary of the day that signaled the end of legalized slavery in the United States, a milestone deeply rooted in the American story of freedom, resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of justice. On June 19, 1865, Union Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas to announce General Order No. 3, declaring that all enslaved people in Texas were free—more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation had officially ended slavery in Confederate states. This day, now known as Juneteenth, has become a profound commemoration of freedom, resilience, and the ongoing journey toward justice.
Today, Juneteenth, (June 19th) is recognized as a federal holiday, a landmark achievement that came in 2021 after decades of advocacy and national reflection on racial justice. This designation offers millions of Americans, of all backgrounds, the opportunity to pause, reflect, and celebrate together, the progress toward unity. Juneteenth is a day for all of us. Freedom is a shared American value and the story of emancipation belongs to all of us.
Across the country, and beyond, the month of June is host to a vibrant mix of events: parades, festivals, musical performances, family-friendly activities, religious and educational programs. These activities are designed to bring people together, foster understanding, and honor the rich cultural heritage of Black Americans.
As we honor this 160th anniversary, it is important to remember that Juneteenth is both a celebration and a call to action. Oppression in various forms continues and its resistance must come from each of us. Juneteenth is not just a day on the calendar, it is a living testament to the strength and perseverance of those who fought for freedom.
This 160th milestone anniversary invites all Americans to reflect on our shared history, celebrate progress, and recommit to the unfinished work of building a more just society
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Let's make Juneteenth a commemorative, not of the horrific institution our country embraced, but rather as a showcase of the strength in the American spirit to recognize wrong and set about making it right. In this same spirit America moves ahead today in leveling playing fields and achieving ever greater equality. Let us celebrate all that Juneteenth teaches us about our country's greatness in our use of the heart to hear and to learn and to work together for all that is good and just.
In June of 2008, my grandmother was laid to rest. As our funeral procession passed near Wichita State University in Wichita, KS, a parade was taking place. The parade stopped to let us pass, and the men and women on horseback removed their cowboy hats and placed them over their hearts. It was the first time that day we laughed - Grams would have loved that she stopped a parade. What those men and women did not know is my Grams was a First Lieutenant in the Army - she served during WWII as a psychiatric nurse. She lived an amazing life after that, with God at the helm. I learned today that the parade that day by WSU was the Juneteenth Parade. That the men and women so selflessly stopped to allow our funeral procession to move past has remained in our family's hearts and minds all these years. We cannot thank you enough for your kindness. You are forever a part of our family's history.
WELCOME
It's "Official"
Juneteenth is now a Federal Holiday!
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The understanding and excitement of Juneteenth is growing at a phenomenal rate. Cities and States all across the U.S. and beyond are realizing the wonderful opportunity we have to come together in appreciation, reconciliation, and commemoration. During Juneteenth we acknowledge the African American spirit and pay tribute to the roles and contributions which have enriched our society.
The JUNETEENTH.com website provides a channel in which to connect and unite all whom share the vision of this celebration. Through the efforts of those at the grassroots level, to those on the state and national levels, Juneteenth celebrations are now held in most, if not all, 50 states. Over half have passed some form of legislation establishing Juneteenth as a Special Day of Recognition. Several other states have similar legislation pending.
The recognition and honor of Juneteenth extends even beyond our borders. Expatriates, teachers, servicemen and others have continued their celebrations internationally. We cherish their dedication, as well as each and every one of you, who see the wisdom and vision of an America who comes to terms with truth, acknowledges its mistakes and commits to liberty and justice for all. We live in a different world today. There is no room, nor time, for bigotry, hatred and racism within our own citizenry.
That indeed, is our vision. We hope you enjoy your visit to JUNETEENTH.com. We look forward to keeping you informed on the news of Juneteenth, and other matters of importance.
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“My humanity is bound up in yours, for we can only be human together."
-Desmond Tutu
