John,

Today, on Juneteenth, we commemorate the emancipation of the last enslaved people in the United States, a full two and a half years after Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation.

Juneteenth is a celebration of freedom, but also a sobering reminder: justice in this country has often been delayed, and democracy has always required a fight.

That’s especially true now. With Donald Trump back in the White House, the stakes for our communities have never been higher.

We must remain clear-eyed about where we are and steadfast in our work to ensure that Black voices are represented and empowered in every level of government.

As the first Black woman to lead Emerge, I’m proud to guide an organization that’s not only committed to representation but to building real power that reflects the lived experience of our communities.

That means supporting Black women leaders in every state, on every ballot. And it’s why we launched our Seated Together program, the nation’s first advanced candidate leadership program for Black women elected officials seeking higher office.

Right now, Black Emerge alums are serving in office from school board to Congress. And every day, we’re training more bold women of the New American Majority to rise, run, and win.

Juneteenth reminds us that progress takes work, and that the fight for freedom isn’t over.

Thank you for being part of this movement.

In solidarity,
A’shanti F. Gholar
President, Emerge