Why learn about Juneteenth?
To me, the answer is simple---to combat racism! Despite what the media says today about people not being racist, and racism, not existing---racism is here to stay. That is why celebrations like Juneteenth should be here to stay as well. So here is why I think learning about Juneteenth is essential, every American should know this history for people who want to understand our newest national holiday's significance as more than a historical event. Juneteenth marks the end of slavery in the United States, particularly in Texas, and serves as a powerful celebration of freedom and American history. It represents a pivotal moment when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, finally learned of their freedom — two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. But beyond that, Juneteenth is a symbol of resilience, unity, and the ongoing fight for equality, making Juneteenth a vital part of the American story.
What many may not realize is that Juneteenth was celebrated not only by the newly freed Black Americans but also by white abolitionists and anti-slavery supporters who worked tirelessly to dismantle the institution of slavery. These white allies believed in the moral wrongs of slavery and stood side by side with Black Americans to bring about change. The celebration of Juneteenth, then, is a tribute to all those — Black and white — who fought for freedom, justice, and human dignity. It reminds us that the abolition of slavery was not the victory of one race over another but a shared triumph for humanity.
A key piece of that story is the Underground Railroad, a network that helped enslaved people escape to freedom. While many free Black individuals risked their lives to guide people along this path, the network was largely supported and run by white Americans who opposed slavery. They provided shelter, food, and safe passage — often at great personal risk. This collaboration across racial lines is a crucial part of Juneteenth’s legacy, showing that the fight for freedom was a collective effort, driven by a belief in the fundamental rights of all human beings.
It’s also essential to remember that not every Black person in America during the time of slavery was enslaved. There were free Black Americans who built communities, owned businesses and contributed to the nation’s growth. They, too, played an essential role in advocating for the abolition of slavery and supporting their enslaved brethren. Juneteenth honors these individuals and their determination to fight for a future where freedom is a reality for all.
Juneteenth is more than a day of celebration — it’s a reminder of what Americans can achieve when they come together for a just cause. It represents the unity of different races in America, all standing against the oppression of the human race. The day calls for reflection on the past, recognition of the progress made, and a renewed commitment to creating a more equitable future. It is an event for all Americans, regardless of background, to gather, learn, and celebrate the spirit of freedom and unity.
This spirit of togetherness and shared struggle is at the heart of my book, The Juneteenth Handbook. The book delves into the history and significance of Juneteenth, highlighting the efforts of both Black and white Americans who worked to end slavery. It serves as a guide to understanding how the holiday embodies the ideals of freedom, perseverance, and unity — values that continue to shape America today.
In a time when division often dominates headlines, Juneteenth stands as a powerful reminder of what unity can achieve. It encourages us to look beyond our differences and recognize the humanity that binds us all. The legacy of Juneteenth teaches that freedom is not a gift handed down by one group to another — it’s a right that belongs to everyone, and it’s a victory earned through the collective efforts of diverse, determined individuals.
By learning about Juneteenth, we honor those who endured unimaginable hardships and those who fought alongside them to break the chains of slavery. We acknowledge the progress that has been made and the work that remains. Juneteenth is a celebration of freedom, a testament to unity, and a reminder that America’s strength lies in its diversity and its people’s unwavering pursuit of justice.