Juneteenth: 156 Years After Galveston

Posted June 19, 2021
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(Washington, DC) – Today, we celebrate Juneteenth, the oldest national commemoration of the end of slavery in the United States. This year, however, represents the first federally recognized observance of Juneteenth in American history after President Biden signed legislation overwhelmingly approved by Congress, cementing June 19th as a federal holiday.

Rachel Fleischer, Executive Director for Young Invincibles issued the following statement.

“Today we are honored to join millions around the country to observe Juneteenth, which serves as a celebration of Black freedom following the end of slavery. Even more, it honors the contributions of Black Americans to our country. This recognition of Black leadership, Black joy, Black thought, and Black power continues to remind us that real change, though often frustrating and painful, is possible.

Although our nation still has a long way to go to confront and overcome the dark legacy of slavery, Congress’ passage of the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act represents a symbolically meaningful step forward in the journey to reconciliation and beyond.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Juan Ramiro Sarmiento (785) 760 6567 | [email protected]