June 19, 2024
Cited article by Truthout (Author: George Yancy)
HRRC commemorates Juneteenth and recognizes the still existing challenges faced by the Black American community. The fight for equality, equity, and social justice continue, and we urge the U.S. government, law enforcement, and organizations dedicated to human rights and social justice to ensure support for the Black community.
News Brief
The historical significance of Juneteenth cannot be understated. The now federally-recognized holiday commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans declared on June 19th, 1865, when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, to enforce the end of slavery, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. The struggle for racial equality and justice is ongoing in the United States, and the journey towards true freedom and equality for Black Americans is a continuous process that requires vigilance and effort.
Additionally, while Juneteenth is a day of celebration, commemorating the long-awaited freedom of enslaved people, it also serves as a reminder of the persistent systemic inequalities faced by Black communities. Despite the progress made, significant challenges remain, including police violence, economic disparities, and political disenfranchisement. It is necessity for continuous and collective efforts to dismantle these oppressive systems and create a more just and equitable society for all.