Hello,

Today is Juneteenth, the longest-known celebration commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. It’s a day where we celebrate freedom, honor the progress we’ve made toward equity, and renew our commitment to equality.

Juneteenth, also known as Emancipation Day or Freedom Day, began on June 19, 1865, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed when enslaved Black people in Galveston, Texas learned the Civil War was over and slavery had ended in the United States.

Over the past 158 years, true equity following emancipation has yet to be achieved. 

In the U.S. today, inequity persists in our day-to-day lives and through the systems our country runs on. From racial injustice to a deep racial wealth gap. From instances of police brutality to attacks on Black history. Right now, Republicans are trying to ban students from learning about Black history, including the history of Juneteenth. We can’t let Republicans erase our history. 

We know equal justice for all cannot wait even one more day.

Today is a time to reflect on history, but also a time to make sure we continue marching, voting, organizing, protesting, educating, and fighting until the promise of equal justice is fulfilled for all. 

Whether you plan to engage in conversations about racial justice or support organizations working towards equality, we encourage you to take action today. 

Lavora Barnes
Chair, Michigan Democratic Party