06/19/2026
As we observe Juneteenth, we reflect on June 19, 1865, when news of freedom finally reached more than 250,000 enslaved people in Texas—more than two years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation.
Juneteenth serves as a reminder that the promise of freedom was not experienced equally or immediately by all. It is an opportunity to reflect on our nation's history, honor the resilience and perseverance of those who endured generations of hardship, and recognize the lasting impact Black Americans have had on our communities, institutions, and country.
As we commemorate this important day, we remember the enduring significance of freedom, opportunity, and progress, and the continued importance of building communities where all people are treated with dignity and respect.
