Friend — Today is Juneteenth, which celebrates the day (June 19, 1865, to be precise) when Union General Gordon Granger read federal orders in Galveston, Texas, that all previously enslaved people in Texas were free — this despite the fact the Emancipation Proclamation had issued this order on January 1, 1863.

The holiday received its name by combining June and 19. The day is also sometimes called "Juneteenth Independence Day," "Freedom Day," or "Emancipation Day."

Juneteenth is not just a celebration of the emancipation of those individuals in Texas but a reminder to all that none are free until all are free. Free from racial profiling. Free from police violence. Free from polluted air. Free from toxic drinking water.

As LCV approaches its 50th anniversary, we recognize that we have not always been an ally for racial justice and equity. We have not always spoken up or we have taken too long to do so. We must and will do better.

Learning is part of how we show up and we urge everyone to take a moment to learn about Juneteenth from the National Museum of African American History and Culture »

But more important than simply reading about Juneteenth, now is the moment to get involved. We stand with the Black-led and racial justice organizations who are propelling this movement for Black lives and freedom forward — and we encourage you to get involved and support these organizations too.

People across the country have taken to the streets and raised their voices in demanding change and events and actions are planned around the country. There are also lots of virtual events and spaces for learning as well. Get involved and find an in-person or virtual event near you »

We can also show up by providing financial support to organizations that are on the front lines of the fight for Black lives. Below are just a few examples of organizations you can donate to:

• Black Lives Matter works to organize and mobilize in response to anti-Black violence and structural inequality.
• Black Visions Collective works to build movements from the ground up with an integrated model to create the conditions for long-term success and transformation.
• Color of Change leads campaigns that build real power for Black communities by helping people respond effectively to injustice in the world around us.

We acknowledge that this work must continue past this moment, and that supporting Black lives is not just a trend. We pledge to work harder in the fight for racial justice and equity and hold ourselves accountable to these commitments.

Black lives are worth fighting for.

Gene Karpinski
President
League of Conservation Voters