Dear John,
Today, we commemorate Juneteenth. On this day in 1865, the last remaining slaves in our country were granted freedom, two years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. And in Florida, we must remember that May 20th is the day when the Emancipation Proclamation was officially announced here.
This is only the second time in our country’s history that we nationally recognize this holiday, and it’s important we reflect on the significance of today. |
Juneteenth is a day of celebration and reflection — celebrating the progress we’ve made as a country, but also reflecting on the work that continues. Today, we remember the struggle for freedom and liberation, celebrate the progress our country has made since 1865, and recommit ourselves to fighting injustice and creating a better future.
Here in Florida, we’ve seen politicians strip black representation in Congress, ban the teaching of crucial historical events, and censor discussions around race in the workplace. These actions remind us of how important it still is to speak out against injustice in our state and across the country.
This Juneteenth, let’s stand together in the fight for freedom and progress. I hope you’ll join me. Thanks, Janelle
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