Juneteenth Series Part 1: A Celebration of Freedom, Resilience, and Our Unfinished Journey

As a Black man in America, two things run deep in my blood: a love for building a future, like the one that drives me in real estate, and a reverence for the history that got us here. Juneteenth, for me, sits right at that intersection. It’s a celebration not just of the end of slavery but of the enduring spirit and strength of Black America. Let’s explore the fascinating history of Juneteenth, a tale that has enormous relevance for our community both historically and contemporarily.

The Historical Context of Juneteenth ??

Our journey begins in Galveston, Texas, on June 19th, 1865. Imagine this: over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation declared slavery illegal, enslaved people in the furthest corners of the Confederacy were still unaware of their freedom. It wasn’t until Major General Gordon Granger of the Union Army arrived in Galveston with a powerful message – the war was over, and slavery was abolished. The joy must have been indescribable. ??

When Major General Granger read General Order No. 3, it was a pivotal moment in American history. The order proclaimed that all enslaved people were free and that they were now equal in rights to their former owners. This day, June 19th, 1865, marked a turning point for over 250,000 enslaved people in Texas, who were among the last in the United States to learn of their liberation. ???

The Birth of Juneteenth ??

June 19th, 1866, marked the first anniversary of that momentous day, and African Americans in Texas gathered for a celebration unlike any other. It was a day of prayer, song, and a newfound sense of possibility. Juneteenth, a combination of “June” and “nineteenth,” was born. ??

However, Juneteenth was more than just a party. It was a powerful image of promise. These were individuals, recently released from slavery, beginning to envision a future. They established businesses, founded churches and schools, and laid the foundation for Black communities all across the nation. Juneteenth was observed every year as a way to honor their tenacity and demonstrate that the spirit of freedom persisted despite unfathomable injustice. ??

The Evolution of Juneteenth Celebrations ??

In the early years, Juneteenth celebrations included prayer meetings, the singing of spirituals, and the reading of the Emancipation Proclamation. These gatherings were not just about rejoicing but also about educating and strengthening the community. As former slaves moved away from Texas, they carried the tradition of Juneteenth with them, spreading it to other parts of the United States. ??

Throughout the years, the nature of Juneteenth celebrations has evolved. By the early 20th century, the day included parades, barbecues, and family gatherings. In many places, it became a time for political rallies, emphasizing the importance of African American voting rights and civic participation. ??

The Significance of Juneteenth Today ??

Fast forward to today, Juneteenth’s significance has only grown. It’s a day of reflection, a reminder of the struggles our ancestors faced. It’s a day of education, a chance to teach younger generations about this critical chapter in American history. But most importantly, Juneteenth is a day of celebration. We celebrate our liberation, our cultural heritage, and the incredible strides we’ve made. ??

Modern Juneteenth celebrations often feature parades, festivals, and community events. They include music, dance, and art, highlighting the rich cultural contributions of African Americans. Educational programs and historical reenactments provide insights into the history of slavery and the ongoing fight for civil rights. ??

Key Figures and Milestones ??

There have been key figures and milestones along the way. Almeda Joynes, a formerly enslaved woman, is credited with organizing the first Juneteenth celebration in Texas. Reverend Benjamin Butler “Bee” Simpson, a community leader in Los Angeles, played a crucial role in popularizing the holiday on the West Coast. Over the decades, Juneteenth spread beyond the Black community, gaining recognition from all corners of America. ??

In 2021, a monumental step was taken when Juneteenth was finally designated as a federal holiday. This wasn’t just symbolic; it was a validation of our history, a national acknowledgment of the enduring legacy of slavery and the fight for freedom. President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law on June 17, 2021, making June 19 a national holiday. This move was widely celebrated as a significant step towards recognizing the importance of African American history in the broader American narrative.

Juneteenth and the Ongoing Struggle for Equality ??

Yet, the journey for true equality continues. Juneteenth serves as a powerful reminder that freedom is not a destination, but a constant pursuit. We still grapple with issues of racial injustice and economic disparity. Systemic racism, police brutality, and socioeconomic inequalities continue to impact Black communities across the United States. ??

Juneteenth also reminds us of our collective power. It reminds us that we are descendants of survivors, of dreamers, and of builders. It fuels our determination to keep moving forward, to keep building a future where all Black Americans can thrive. ??

Celebrating Juneteenth Today ??

So let’s celebrate Juneteenth to the fullest this year. Let’s pay tribute to our forefathers, teach the next generation, and recommit to the continuous struggle for a more equal and just America. Whether through community events, educational programs, or personal reflection, let’s ensure that Juneteenth serves as a source of inspiration and a launchpad to help us all move forward into a future as promising as the Black community’s tenacity. ??

Juneteenth is more than just a holiday; it’s a celebration of resilience, a testament to the strength and perseverance of Black Americans. It’s a reminder of the progress we’ve made and the work that still lies ahead. By honoring this day, we honor our past, celebrate our present, and pave the way for a brighter future. ??

Let’s embrace the spirit of Juneteenth and continue to fight for a world where freedom and equality are not just ideals but realities for all. ??

If the spirit of Juneteenth inspires you to take steps toward your own future, I invite you to schedule a consultation with me. Together, we can navigate the journey to homeownership, honoring our heritage and building a brighter future for our community. I am dedicated to helping Black Americans achieve their dreams and ensuring that the path to owning a home is accessible and rewarding. Let’s work together to turn the promise of freedom into a reality for everyone.

Eric Lawrence Frazier MBA

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The Power Is Now Media Inc.

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