Hi, John --

Today, we celebrate Juneteenth. 155 years ago the news of freedom finally reached the last Black men and women enslaved in our country -- nearly two and a half years after the abolition of slavery.

This is a day to celebrate Black liberation, freedom and independence. But it's also time to recognize our country's history, the accomplishments of Black people, and the necessary progress that still must come.

This Juneteenth comes amid much needed conversations and actions in our country to eradicate existing systemic racism.

Recent protests have, once again, lifted up the urgent need to fix long standing racial inequities, in our education, economic, criminal justice, and healthcare systems. It's critical that we take on these disparities that the Black community continues to face.

I'm committed to creating real change in our state that provides protection and opportunity for all North Carolinians.

I know this year's Juneteenth celebrations may look different because of the coronavirus, but we can make it more meaningful than ever.

Happy Juneteenth,

Roy