Hi there,

Today, I join Americans across our country in commemorating the 155th anniversary of June 19, 1865 -- more commonly known as Juneteenth. This holiday signifies the day Union soldiers delivered federal orders to Galveston, Texas announcing the end of slavery in the United States -- two and a half years after President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation.

While marked by celebrations that are both uplifting and educational, the history of Juneteenth is a stark reminder of the long path forward to equality and racial justice. The same grip of systemic racism that delayed the freedoms promised to Black Americans then is the same grip we are fighting in our nation, even today.

So with our country at a crossroads on this Juneteenth, I urge all of us to reflect on how we can each build a more perfect union -- especially for Black Americans -- and to honor the sacrifices made by these patriots who have contributed to the economic, cultural, and social enrichment of our nation.

The world is watching how we will proceed down the path to equality. Let's continue to move toward meaningful change that is long overdue for Black Americans.

Happy Juneteenth!

-- Anthony Brindisi