Juneteenth 2023: Freedom and Your Community
Juneteenth is a celebration of freedom, service, and community. Did you know it took almost three years for the news of emancipation to reach the entire United States? June 19th, 1865 is a date remembered to celebrate the freedom of the enslaved people of Texas, known as Juneteenth. This holiday has become an important symbol for African Americans and their culture.
2023 is the 155th anniversary of Juneteenth, and the 3rd year it is being recognized as a federal holiday.
Many people gather with family and friends for picnics and cookouts on Independence Day. This day marks freedom for all Americans, regardless of race or creed. It is a special occasion to come together for fellowship and good times.
Freedom
Juneteenth celebrates the freedom of enslaved people in the US. It also celebrates freedom of self-expression and self-determination. It’s a day to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States and recognize the importance of community service.
June 19th is celebrated as the day of emancipation in Texas. This is the date that news of emancipation reached Texas after the Civil War. Union forces had defeated Confederate troops at Port Isabel in Galveston Bay.
Many enslaved people were unaware until June 19th. On that day, General Granger arrived with 2,000 federal soldiers. They informed the people that they were now free men and women.
Community
Community is the foundation of Juneteenth. It is where you can be yourself, find support, and make friends. Community is where you feel safe and at home. Take the time to learn about the history your city has.
Did you know that Jacksonville, FL has heritage trails and museums to help learn about the city’s Black History?
· St. Augustine Music Festival: Celebrate Juneteenth on Monday, June 19th, at 7:30 pm!
The event will feature the Ritz Chamber Players. This is a free event honoring the history of Juneteenth. Learn more about this event here.
· Black Heritage Trail: Learn about Jacksonville’s history and the brave African Americans who paved the way for the city. Explore the stops along this trail, including the Ritz Theatre and Museum and the Eartha M.M White Museums. Learn more about this self-guided tour here.
· Jacksonville and Duval County Historic Landmarks: Visit Florida has a list of African American landmarks and legacies that can be visited! Take a look at this list here.
The Opportunity
Juneteenth is an opportunity to celebrate the freedom, service, and community that have been part of African American history. It is a time to celebrate freedom as Americans and remember those who fought for it. Use this day to come together as one community. We can strive to improve ourselves through education and personal growth.
