Juneteenth: Celebrating Freedom Amid Political Changes

HOUSTON, Texas — Juneteenth marks the day in 1865 when the last enslaved Americans in Texas learned that they had been freed, a significant milestone in U.S. history. On June 19, the country honors this day, also known as Freedom Day and Emancipation Day. President Joe Biden declared Juneteenth a federal holiday in 2021, expanding its recognition beyond Black America.

This year’s Juneteenth will be the first celebrated during Donald Trump‘s second administration, which has focused on rolling back diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in government. Some federal agencies have reportedly removed Black American history content from their websites, leading to questions about the holiday’s observance.

Despite the political climate, many Americans plan to celebrate. Festivals, fairs, and concerts are scheduled throughout the week leading up to the holiday. Marc Morial, president and CEO of the National Urban League, stated, ‘I don’t think anyone should be intimidated or obligated into not celebrating the day.’ He urged everyone to be clear on the significance of Juneteenth.

Public events vary widely, ranging from fun, carnivalesque festivals with food trucks to educational panels on Juneteenth’s history. The National Park Service is offering free entry to all national sites on the holiday, ensuring broader participation.

Typical Juneteenth celebrations include traditional foods like barbecue, red velvet cake, and drinks like fruit punch, emphasizing the significance of the color red in honoring the bloodshed of enslaved ancestors. Some are also choosing to decorate with the Juneteenth flag, a symbol of freedom.

The holiday has become increasingly commercialized, with national chains marketing Juneteenth-themed products. Morial expressed concern that political climates might restrict companies from celebrating freely, suggesting a shift to support local Black-owned vendors.

Juneteenth has several names, including Black Fourth of July and second Independence Day, as many believe it rightly represents freedom that was denied to Black Americans until 1865. ‘This is all of our history,’ said sociology professor Dr. Karida Brown. ‘The story of emancipation and freedom for your Black brothers and sisters is intertwined with our collective history.’

As celebrations approach, many may wonder about proper greetings. Typical expressions include ‘Happy Juneteenth’ or ‘Happy Teenth,’ with humorist Alan Freeman drawing parallels between holiday greetings as a way to foster community spirit.