Yesterday, while having lunch with my roommate and best friend, we stumbled upon the topic of Juneteenth. We began this conversation, because my actual birthday is June 19th, which is the actual date for Juneteenth. For those who are unaware, Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration commemorating the ending of slavery in the United States. Based upon history, Juneteenth dates back to 1865. The Emancipation Proclamation was sign and became official on January 1st,1863. Although that was true, because of the lack of Union soldiers to enforce this, slavery continued in Texas and other areas until Union Soldiers arrived and delivered the news, hence becoming Juneteenth. Slavery continued for another two and half years in this area before becoming unconstitutional.
On June 19th 1865, Union soldiers, led by Major General Gordon Granger, traveled to Galveston, Texas with news that the war had ended and that the enslaved were now free. This day is very important to me personally, not just because it falls on my birth date, but because it showed the true beginning of freedom after slavery. This showed me that African Americans, were not given a chance to live their lives, without a delay from anyone. I believe every African American should be aware of the history and importance of Juneteenth.
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