Juneteenth
Juneteenth is recognized as a day of reflection, education, and celebration of African American history and achievements. It serves as a reminder of the struggles and resilience of African Americans in their pursuit of freedom and equality. Juneteenth also provides an opportunity for people of all backgrounds to come together to acknowledge the injustices of the past, to promote racial reconciliation, and to reaffirm the commitment to the ongoing fight for social justice and equality for all.
Black Greens, and all Greens, will find the ideals that this observance stands for are consistent with Green Party values and our four pillars. We encourage Greens to visit and participate in Juneteenth celebrations and events wherever you are.
Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. The name "Juneteenth" is a combination of "June" and "nineteenth," referring to June 19, 1865, the day when Union Army General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and read General Order No. 3, announcing the end of slavery in Texas and proclaiming that all enslaved people were now free.
With the ongoing issues of racism, school to prison pipeline; egregious conditions and servitude of mass incarceration our work is not done. The criminal in-justice system, and other health and social disparities mean that now is the time to stand together show your support and stand up in solidarity with the National Black Caucus and the Green Party on issues of equity and justice. Together we can make a difference, starting today!
“The reason why I get so emotional on Juneteenth is because when I was in school it wasn't taught to me. Didn't remember exactly how my people got free. And neither did any of my classmates, they saw a slave when they looked at me. That missing puzzle piece in my understanding of American History left a hole in me, and I'm trying to fill it with Juneteenth. Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness.” - Artis Burney, Former Green Candidate for Mississippi Senate |
The significance of Juneteenth lies in its recognition as the day when the last enslaved individuals in the United States learned of their freedom, more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863. The delay in the enforcement of emancipation in Texas was due to a combination of factors, including the remote location of Texas and the resistance of slaveholders to comply with the Emancipation Proclamation.
Juneteenth celebrations emerged as early as 1866 and became more widespread over time, particularly among African American communities in Texas and other parts of the South. These celebrations often included gatherings, parades, picnics, prayer services, and other festivities to commemorate the end of slavery and to celebrate freedom and African American culture. Juneteenth is a nationally recognized holiday in the United States to further honor its significance and ensure that its history is remembered and acknowledged by all Americans.
Join us in celebrating solidarity and our collective drive for justice and freedom. Help us stay in the fight and drive home the message of justice and equity all around our nation show your support and stand up in solidarity with the National Black Caucus and the Green Party on issues of equity and justice with your donation today!
In solidarity,
National Black Caucus
Green Party of the United States
P.S. You can read Artis Burney's complete and powerful reflections on Juneteenth on our website.
P.S.S. You can grab a Five Pack of Black Caucus Buttons on the Green Party Shop. Sales benefit the National Black Caucus directly!
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