On Tuesday, June 15, the US Senate unanimously passed a bill to make Juneteenth a federal holiday. It was followed by House approval, and President Joe Biden signed it into law, today.
“Great nations don’t ignore their most painful moments, they embrace them. In remembering those moments, we begin to heal and grow stronger,” said President Biden.
This Saturday, the country will observe Juneteenth – a holiday long celebrated in the African American community, recognizing the anniversary of when Major General Granger announced that more than 250,000 enslaved black people in Texas were freed by executive decree. This occurred two years after Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation.
Juneteenth is a time of reflection and celebration. We encourage everyone to participate in the many events happening around Chicago. Here are a couple of links to find a local event and learn the history of this important date.
Choose Chicago
Sun Times Juneteenth events
NPR Podcast – History of Juneteenth
If you are not in Chicago, search for events locally to you, and go out and celebrate!
This holiday is also a good opportunity for all of us to recommit to advance a more just and equitable world for Black and Brown children, youth, and families who continue to experience the long-term impact of systemic racism. Become a champion for children today.
