Folks, 

In January 1863, during the middle of the Civil War, President Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation. However, it wasn’t until June 19th two full years later, that slavery officially ended, when federal troops stormed Galveston, Texas.

Last year, President Biden declared Juneteenth as a federal holiday – a significant step to nationally recognizing the significance of this day 157 years ago. And while this calls for celebration, it’s also a moment for reflection and commitment to action.

We aren’t a free country until we’re all free – and the fight for freedom, equality, and racial justice continues. Institutional racism still exists. Black Americans experience disparities when it comes to healthcare, education, housing, the criminal justice system, and more.

Today – and every day – I remain committed to showing up in the fight for racial justice and will continue to do all within my power to repair the incalculable harms of racism and racist violence.

Happy Juneteenth, friends.

In solidarity,

Jasmine