Juneteenth: the day which marks full independence in our country. On June 19, 1865, slaves in Galveston, Texas rejoiced as they received news that they were free. This freedom came two years after Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. Two years later.

As we celebrate our country’s second independence day, we must remember that injustice is deeply rooted in our country’s past and present. Racism, hatred, and white supremacy are still active in the United States and have been on display in the form of the insurrection, challenges to voting rights, and attacks on academic freedom that take a more accurate look at this nation’s history.

We must continue to fight for truth, justice, equity and work towards a better America. Black Americans have yet to take part in the fullness of this country, continuing to battle discrimination both overtly and subvertly. 

I supported the measure to make Juneteenth a national holiday for a simple reason — it truly is our other Independence Day. Millions of Americans began the journey to freedom on that day in 1865, and we owe it to their memories and Black Americans today to honor this Independence Day.

Let us continue to remain steadfast in our fight for justice — have a safe and happy Juneteenth,

— Stacey Plaskett