John,

On this day 157 years ago, word of slavery’s abolition in the United States reached Galveston, Texas. The news that slavery in America had been abolished was a defining moment in the lives of more than 2,000 Black people still living in slavery. Today, we call it Juneteenth, a celebration and call to remembrance of the freedom gained by Black Americans.

But we must remember that our nation continues to struggle with basic rights and opportunities for Black Americans. We’re still battling the shameful legacies of slavery, Jim Crow, housing segregation, voter suppression, access to health care, and life expectancy.

Americans all across the nation have stood up and demanded change from their leaders — they’ve called on us to root out systemic racism in housing, public education, health care, and more.

Let’s take that movement and build an America whose laws reflect the undeniable truth that Black Americans deserve equity in this country.

While today is a celebration of Black liberation, we must also recognize the unique inequities that Black Americans face in our nation, and recommit ourselves to taking action together. The road ahead will not be easy, but I know a better world is possible. I’m fighting for it — will you join me?

— Liz Whitmer Gereghty