On this day 155 years ago, Union soldiers rode into Galveston, Texas and informed the last quarter-million enslaved African Americans of their freedom. With that, the United States ended its historic legal practice of slavery.

John, today -- Juneteenth -- is a day of recognition and empowerment for the Black community and its allies. And though our nation has made tremendous progress, it’s imperative that all of us continue to fight for justice, freedom, and equality for Americans nationwide.

This Juneteenth, we remember that real change is possible. We remember that national contributions and sacrifices -- like those that we’ve seen in recent demonstrations -- can affect progress. And we celebrate the collective freedom that we have, and the steps to get there.

I’m so proud to try my best to be an ally today, and I’m proud to know that as a member of Team Cisneros, you are too.

Thank you,

-- Gil