Happy Juneteenth, John.

Today we celebrate the anniversary of June 19, 1865, where in Galveston, Texas, the Union Army Major General Gordon Granger issued General Order No. 3 proclaiming that, in accordance with the Emancipation Proclamation of January 1, 1863, “all slaves are free.” 

It took two years for enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation to reach some parts of the country. Among other things, this story is a reminder that we must back up our words with action — otherwise they are meaningless.

Juneteenth celebrates the end of slavery in America. It also marks the yet unfinished work to make America a more perfect union.

This Juneteenth, we face the rotten truth that so much of the work that we have done in the past century is being eroded right now by Donald Trump and his administration.

Not since the 1800s have we witnessed this kind of assault on Black political power, representation, and economic stability — right out in the open. They‘re firing qualified African-Americans, targeting Black leaders, freezing military promotions, and stripping contracts from Black businesses.

I talk to people now who are afraid to put their heads up because of the consequences of this administration‘s so-called “assault on DEI,” while at the same time Trump continues to promote unqualified white men to position after position.

So while we need to celebrate this day, we also need to recommit ourselves to rejecting these politics of hate and division and to recommit to the work left undone.

I am in awe of the relentless determination displayed by organizers, activists, and advocates throughout the country, especially now as Trump and his Republicans threaten our rights.

As we find ourselves at a crucial juncture in America‘s journey, we have an immense duty to preserve our democracy and strive toward a nation that embodies shared values — a nation that fosters unity and lifts everyone. Together. Generations of tireless sacrifice have led us to savor freedoms we ourselves have not earned but must continue to honor and protect.

Today is a day of both celebration and reflection, a reminder that while significant work lies ahead, we can find hope in our collective efforts.

If you and me and everyone on our team join the fight, we are unstoppable. Together, I believe we can build the more loving, equitable nation we aspire to become.

With love and gratitude,

Cory