Friends,

Today we celebrate Juneteenth! This holiday commemorates the effective end of slavery in the United States: 157 years ago today, Union soldiers landed in Galveston, Texas to deliver the news to the last enslaved Black Americans that the Civil War had ended and that the enslaved were now free. President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, but the news did not reach Galveston until June 19, 1865. That’s two additional years that the enslaved people of Galveston had to wait for their freedom. 

Today, many Americans are still waiting – waiting for this nation to reckon earnestly with our past and fully address the ways our history of racism has harmed our present. I’m proud to have worked in the Senate to expand economic and educational opportunities for people of color, protect access to the ballot, reform our policing and justice systems, and tackle the alarming rise in hate crimes. Of course, there is still so much work to be done.

While Juneteenth is a celebration of freedom, it is also on opportunity to reflect on our history. This reflection can and should inform our work to achieve full equality for all of our citizens. When I look at our world today, I’m reminded that the most difficult parts of our history don’t have to define our nation. Our story as a country is one of progress, promise, and hope. As we continue to work towards a more perfect union, I’m thankful for this opportunity recognize our triumphs and reflect on our shortcomings.

If you ever want to share your thoughts about an issue that’s important to you, you can send me an email any time using the form on my Senate website. You can also follow me on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,