Hello,

On June 19th, 1865, Galveston, Texas rejoiced when news of emancipation finally arrived more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. That day is known as Juneteenth: the annual and longest known celebration commemorating the end of slavery in the United States.

And while today is a celebration, it’s also a reminder that 156 years later we still have a long way to go towards achieving true freedom.

When Black mothers are three to four times more likely to die from childbirth than white women, that’s not freedom.

When Black folks are increasingly and disproportionately murdered by police, that’s not freedom.

When Black Americans are suppressed and discouraged from voting, that’s not freedom.

So long as those barriers to equality remain, so must our commitment to justice.

We can't stop marching, voting, organizing, protesting, and fighting — until the promise of equal justice is fulfilled.

Today, as I honor and reflect on the sacrifices made by my ancestors, I renew my commitment to the hard work ahead. I hope you will join me.

Whether you speak up against voter suppression or donate to an organization fighting for racial justice, commit to taking action now:

Lavora Barnes
Chair, Michigan Democratic Party