Statement on Juneteenth
On #Juneteenth, which is also known as ‘Freedom Day,’ we commemorate June 19, 1865, the date when the slaves in the State of Texas finally received the news that they were free – more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation of January 1, 1863.
Today is a celebration of freedom. As African Americans, while we still face challenges, we nonetheless live in the most free and prosperous nation on earth. Despite these challenges, let us also recognize the incredible progress we have made. African Americans have reached the pinnacle of all aspects of society: from the presidency to athletics, from media to the highest levels of the educational establishment, our community continues to make a positive and meaningful impact on our country and the world.
I encourage everyone to come together today and celebrate the progress, but also remain mindful that there is still much work to be done.
- Glen Gilzean Jr.
- Glen Gilzean Jr.