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John,
This July 4th, let’s recommit to building a country and a world where all people are free.
We’re part of a long tradition of people rising up to make sure this country lives up to its promises of democracy, and we won’t stop fighting until we achieve a truly just and multi-racial democracy that works for all of us.
As part of this work, I introduced a resolution on Juneteenth with my colleague Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove to honor, preserve, and invest in historic Freedmen’s Settlements.
After emancipation, free and formerly enslaved African Americans established over 1,200 Freedmen’s Settlements and Black Towns across the country, including Idlewild in Michigan. Seeking economic opportunity and refuge from racial terror, they built self-sustaining and thriving communities, which embody freedom and resilience.
As right-wing legislators try to ban the teaching of Black History, we must recognize and protect the important Black history that’s still alive in the present—and support the descendants of formerly enslaved people who still live in these historic Freedmen’s Settlements.
As we center freedom this July 4th, please sign on to support my new resolution to honor, preserve, and invest in Freedmen’s Settlements. These vibrant Black communities hold an important history that deserves recognition and protection.
Some of these Freedmen’s Settlements are in Texas, such as Sandbranch and Independence Heights. Tanya DeBose, a resident of Independence Heights, said:
“Historic Black towns and settlements represent freedom. These places represent the authentic proof of life after emancipation and are living examples of the resiliency of the former enslaved. With only a handful left, yes, these places deserve to be preserved as they are part of the American story.”
Despite facing racial violence, racist laws, and issues like environmental racism, some of these communities have persevered across the country. But with years of systemic racism and disinvestment, many of these communities lack access to essential infrastructure such as clean running water.
Phyllis Gage, a resident of Sandbranch in Texas, said: “Sandbranch has so much history in it. And we the homeowners who are left would love to one day have clean and running water through our homes. Our ancestors fought for this and here we are, still today, fighting just for clean water.”
These communities deserve better, including federal funding and recognition.
Please sign on now to urge members of Congress to honor, preserve, and invest in these historic Freedmen’s Settlements.
This July 4th, we’re still fighting to ensure equality and freedom for all.
In solidarity,
Rashida Tlaib
U.S. Representative, MI12
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