 John, On June 19, 1865, nearly two and half years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation, Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas with news that the war had ended. This was a crucial turning point in our nation’s history as the last enslaved people in America learned of their freedom, and is now recognized as Juneteenth – the oldest known commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. But John, while Juneteenth is a moment for celebration, it is also a reminder that progress is sometimes too slow, and we must continue to pave a path forward. In order to become a country that truly offers liberty and justice for all, we must work to address systemic racism head on, elect leaders who reflect the values we all share, and take a hard stance against the divisiveness and hatred that too often, and more so recently, has plagued our politics. Please, join me today in commemorating Juneteenth and the progress we’ve made since, as well as in reaffirming our commitment to fighting for a better, more just future for all. Gracias, Annette |
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