Juneteenth

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Juneteenth is a celebration commemorating the ending of slavery in the United States.

On June 19, 1865, Major General Gordon Granger announced the end of slavery in Galveston, Texas. Major Granger’s announcement included the following statement: “The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, ‘all slaves are free.’”

Traditionally celebrated with food, singing, parades and speeches, Juneteenth is an important holiday not just for Black people but for everyone who recognizes the need to fight for the freedom of all people.

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“We will sing for freedom, / clap our hands for freedom.”
“…moons of freedom / blessing the nights.”
“may each of us / remove the shackles of another”
“Be with us, as we acknowledge the sins of slavery, racism, and discrimination”

“On this day the message of freedom was no longer delayed”

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