Juneteenth is the nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States, which is recognized as June 19, 1865 – the day that enslaved people in Galveston, Texas finally received word of the Emancipation Proclamation. The day is also sometimes called “Freedom Day” or “Emancipation Day.”
But the ending of slavery did not end white supremacy and structural racism in the United States. In the more than 150 years since Juneteenth, Black leaders and organizations have been working tirelessly–and too often without support from white-dominated institutions and organizations–to build a more just, equitable society.
To lay a path to freedom for future generations, the Movement for Black Lives is mobilizing people across the country to rally for Black lives and in support of three core demands: Defunding the Police, Investing in Black Communities, Calling for Trump’s Resignation. We encourage you to find an event near you or participate virtually in online events taking place starting Friday, June 19 and continuing through Sunday, June 21.
Juneteenth is a day that honors Black freedom and Black resistance, and centers Black people’s unique contribution to the struggle for justice in the U.S. This Juneteenth is a rare moment for our communities to proclaim in one voice that Black Lives Matter, and that we won’t tolerate anything less than justice for all our people.
Join the #SixNineteen weekend of action in front of the White House, in your community, or online. Learn more and get involved at www.sixnineteen.com