John, today, on Juneteenth, we honor a turning point in American history.

Juneteenth commemorates the day in 1865 when the last enslaved Black Americans in Galveston, Texas were informed of their freedom. This day finally came two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth reminds us that freedom delayed is freedom denied — and that the journey toward justice is far from over.

As we celebrate Black resilience, culture, and progress, we must also confront the work still ahead. The fight to protect and expand voting rights is a cornerstone to the fight for Black equality and freedom.

The right to vote is one of our most powerful tools for change. It was fought for during Reconstruction, during the Civil Rights Movement, and it remains under threat today.

This Juneteenth, let us recommit to defending democracy and ensuring that every voice is heard and counted. We reassert today that true freedom includes the right to participate fully and fairly in shaping our democracy.

Together,
Stacey