Tuesday, June 19, 2007

The Joy of Juneteenth

Well, here it is Juneteenth. It’s a wonderful day in Texas and American history.

Juneteenth celebrates the day that Texas slaves found out they were free.

On June 19, 1865, Texas slaves first heard the news that the War Between the States had ended and that President Lincoln had issued the Emancipation Proclamation. This was only two and a half years after the proclamation was official on January 1, 1863. Wow!

In Texas, Juneteenth (June 19) is a state holiday, first officially observed in 1980, even though celebrations within the African-American community had gone on for 115 years already.

Today, Juneteenth is celebrated in many states, not only by African-Americans, but by everyone who appreciates freedom. And by everyone who appreciates the sacrifices, the love and the talent that the children of former slaves have given to our country.

Oh, and by everyone who appreciates soul food and soul music.

Want more info? Try Wikepedia. Search "Juneteenth."

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