State and community advocates, institutions for change, and lawmakers are highlighting the historical significance of Juneteenth as it’s being observed nationwide.
While many believe the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, marked the end of slavery, the National Museum of African American History and Culture reminds us that it “could not be implemented in places still under Confederate control.” Not all enslaved people were considered free until June 19, 1865. On that day, 2,000 Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, to inform more than 250,000 enslaved people they were free. This holiday is celebrated as the formal end of slavery in America.
“Juneteenth is a reminder that freedom has not always extended to every life in America. Today, we reflect on how far we’ve come to extend liberty & opportunity to all people while continuing to move toward a more perfect Union,” Gov. Bill Lee said on X.
Part of celebrating Juneteenth is to not only understand the significance of the date itself, but examining its place in Black and national history. Rep. Justin Jones emphasized the importance of these sentiments, however he took to his X account to remind the public that legislation is prohibiting this.
“Today we commemorate Juneteenth, but in Tennessee my Republican colleagues passed a bill banning schools from teaching students about the history of why,” Jones stated. “The fight for true liberation continues and we must never yield to white supremacy.”
This year also marks a major milestone in the state as lawmakers voted last year for Juneteenth to be recognized as a paid holiday. As a result, many offices are closed such as Crosstown Arts, Memphis-Shelby County Schools, and Memphis Public Libraries.
While many are closed, places such as University of Memphis are encouraging the public to visit the National Civil Rights Museum (NCRM), which has free admission from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
“Today, we mark the Juneteenth holiday, a defiant declaration of freedom and triumph over oppression,” NCRM said. “As we celebrate this pivotal moment in history, we must ask: What freedoms are we still fighting for? At the National Civil Rights Museum, we stand shoulder to shoulder with those who have fought for liberation … Let’s unite in the pursuit of justice and equality for all, knowing that our actions today will shape the history books of tomorrow.”
The Greater Memphis Chamber said this holiday is a reminder of the “ongoing pursuit of racial equality and equity.” It also said it is “re-committing to fostering diversity and inclusion in our business community.”
“Juneteenth doesn’t just celebrate freedom — for so many Black Memphians (and Black communities across the nation), it’s a day to unapologetically celebrate Black joy, expression, accomplishment and so much more,” We Are Memphis said in a post. “From the movers and shakers who are leading the path to a better and brighter Memphis to the young Memphians ready to make their mark on our city and the world, this day is all about celebrating the legacies they’re creating.”
