Juneteenth

hands holding large banner with slogan we who believe in freedom cannot rest ella baker

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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A prayer for our country.
blank notebook with flowers and pen
“We will sing for freedom, / clap our hands for freedom.”
man with outstretched arms silhouetted from behind, facing the sunrise
“…moons of freedom / blessing the nights.”
full moon over bushes in the night sky
“may each of us / remove the shackles of another”
May Each of Us: A Jewish Prayer for Juneteenth
“Be with us, as we acknowledge the sins of slavery, racism, and discrimination”
black and white photo of black person at a protest holding up a sign that reads “If you are free, you need to free somebody else. If you have some power, then your job is to empower somebody else.” ―Toni Morrison

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

Clap Your Hands, All You Nations: A Psalm for Juneteenth

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