John,
On June 19, 1865, Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas with news
that the Civil War was over, chattel slavery in the United States had
ended and slaves were now free -- more than two years after President
Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation.
Since then, Juneteenth has been commemorated as a time for celebration, a
time to connect with family, and a time to act. It marked a turning point
for newly liberated slaves beginning their journey as free people.
This day is celebrated with pride and symbolizes the strength of
community, unity of spirit, and resistance of people who would be free.
Now in 2021, with Juneteenth officially declared a national holiday and in
the aftermath of centuries of slavery and the legacy of institutionalized
racism that has gripped our nation, we boldly fight to end systemic
dehumanization and disenfranchisement of Black lives.
Efforts in multiple states across the country are currently underway to
eliminate Black history from our children’s education. That’s right,
[ [link removed] ]Republicans are attacking Black History education. Stand with DFA as we
work to stop their racist agenda.
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Black Americans face systemic disadvantages stemming from the racist
foundations of this country that we must mobilize to root out.
Juneteenth, a day of celebration of Black freedom and independence, is the
perfect day to stand together in solidarity and demand structural change.
Today, we find ourselves at a turning point once again, taking stock of
the choices we can make to create a future of equality and true freedom.
The celebration of Juneteenth shows the value and importance of hope and
urgent organizing in uncertain times.
Yet, American history classes rarely teach about Juneteenth or the many
other important moments and leaders in Black history. Republicans across
this country want to keep it that way; or worse, they want to change the
history we do teach to whitewash slavery or rewrite the Civil War.
Black history is American history, and we must do more to tell the truth
about our country's history, not less. And not just because it’s the
truth, but also to ensure we do not repeat it.
That’s why today I encourage you to [ [link removed] ]protect the teaching of black
history in our schools from Republican attacks by signing our petition
now!
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Thank you for adding your name to this fight, and for your support. I’m
glad to be in this fight together with you, especially on a day like
today.
Happy Juneteenth,
— Yvette
Yvette Simpson, CEO
Democracy for America
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