Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. Though slavery had been declared illegal by President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, it took two and a half years for news of the freedom to reach all parts of the country. In Texas, Union soldiers finally arrived on June 19, 1865, with Lincoln’s order in hand. The newly freed slaves celebrated joyfully, and the day soon became known as “Juneteenth.”

Over time, Juneteenth has become a day of reflection and celebration for all Americans. On June 19th, 2021, President Biden signed an executive order making Juneteenth a federal holiday. In his remarks, he said:

“The truth is, it’s not — simply not enough just to commemorate Juneteenth. After all, the emancipation of enslaved Black Americans didn’t mark the end of America’s work to deliver on the promise of equality; it only marked the beginning. To honor the true meaning of Juneteenth, we have to continue toward that promise because we’ve not gotten there yet.”

Today, Juneteenth celebrates African American freedom and achievement while also encouraging self-development and respect for all cultures. It is a time to remember the struggles and sacrifices of those who fought for freedom and to recommit ourselves to the work that remains to fully realize the promise of equality for all.

On this Juneteenth, let us rededicate ourselves to the unfinished business of perfecting our union and to honoring the truth that all of us are created equal.