From the Black Quaker Project, on June 17, 2022:
“The Black Quaker Project is happy to celebrate Juneteenth. . . commemorating the end of slavery in the USA. Although the Emancipation Proclamation (1/1/1863) outlawed slavery in seceding states during the Civil War and the 13th Amendment (1/31/1865) officially ended the practice of chattel slavery across the country, its abolition could not be enforced until after the war’s end. Texas, like all Southern states, refused to recognize the Emancipation Proclamation. African Americans in Texas continued to be held in bondage until the arrival of the Union Army and the reading of General Order No. 3 on June 19, 1865, re-proclaiming freedom from slavery.
Black communities across the US have imbued the date with a deep cultural meaning for over a century, claiming it as a holiday in recognition of the ancestral struggle for Black liberation, celebrating with parades, street fairs, musical festivals, and family reunions. Beginning in 2021, Juneteenth has been celebrated as a federal holiday on June 19.”
This recognition – long overdue, is very important for all Americans. It was celebrated here in Greensboro at Barber Park on Sunday. Persimmon Grove AME, one of our partner churches from the Friendship Community Partnership, was one of the hosts. Their PG-13 group performed beautifully, as did their choir! There was music, food, voting information, etc. and a happy, grateful spirit. But we all know that the work for racial justice must continue. – KHS