At Galileo Learning, we are committed to seeking knowledge and leading with courage as we commemorate Juneteenth, a significant day in American history.
On June 19, 1865, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation, federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas to announce the freedom of enslaved Black Americans. Juneteenth represents their liberation and the recognition of their freedom. In December of that year, slavery was legally abolished with the creation of the 13th Amendment. In June 2021, Congress established Juneteenth as a federal holiday.
Join us in celebrating the rich culture, achievements, and contributions of Black Americans to our society. Here are some of the ways we hope to continue our journey in honoring Juneteenth:
- Learn more about Opal Lee, the 94 year old activist who advocated for Juneteenth becoming a national holiday for many years.
- Learn more about Rep. Al Edwards, the state legislator who helped make Juneteenth a Texas state holiday
- What is Juneteenth and why is it important? (Video)
- Ways to Celebrate and Serve Juneteenth
- Juneteenth Song (for kids)
Other sites that speak more to what Juneteenth is and why itβs important to observe and honor:
- What is Juneteenth? (National Museum of African American Culture & History)
- National Juneteenth Observance Foundation
- Juneteenth.com