Friend, on this day in 1865, news of emancipation finally reached the enslaved people of Galveston, Texas – more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation took effect. 

Juneteenth marks that moment: a delayed but powerful announcement of freedom, and the beginning of a long and unfinished journey toward equality in America.

What followed was a period of Reconstruction, when newly freed Black Americans made incredible strides – holding office, building communities, and laying the foundation for future generations to fight for justice under law.

As New York's first Black woman attorney general, I carry that legacy with me every day. It's what inspires me to keep going.

As a child, I saw the Civil Rights movement take root in New York – in protests, in neighborhoods, in the voices of my family and community demanding better. Better wages, better schools, safer housing, and the freedom to live and thrive without fear.

And today, we're still fighting many of those same battles. 

We've made hard-fought progress – but the work is far from over. Across the country, attacks on our rights are intensifying: from attempts to consolidate unchecked power, to efforts to upend our voting rights and blatant attacks on our Constitution.

That's why I'm committed to continuing this work. Because true freedom means more than just legal equality – it means justice in our courts, dignity in our workplaces, safety in our communities, and a safeguarded democracy.

This Juneteenth, I'm reflecting on the strength of those who came before us and recommitting myself to the fight for justice in New York and for this country we all call home. And I know that with fearless fighters like you with me, we'll keep on pushing forward until we achieve true freedom and equality for all.

Thank you for standing with me, and happy Juneteenth. 

Letitia James