Juneteenth or June 19th is the day entitled to commemorate the freedom of African Americans from slavery in the United States. Ever since then, the African Americans have held a celebration each year on June 19th. This has become a yearly tradition, which ignites the spirit of power and freedom within the Black Americans. This day is not just for African Americans to celebrate, it should be celebrated by everyone. It’s a big deal.
A Sneak into the Past
Slavery among African Americans was at an all-time high in the 17th and 18th centuries. American colonists forced these people out of Africa and into American colonies. They were made to work in the most deplorable conditions, thereafter, for no money.
It was during the presidency of Abraham Lincoln that these African Americans got a chance at freedom. On January 1st 1863, Abraham Lincoln passed an official emancipation proclamation declaring to put an end to slavery within any part of America.
However, this news had not reached the enslaved people until June 19th 1865, when union soldiers made their way to Texas. They proclaimed the good news there, making the people aware of their newfound independence. Although African Americans still had a long way to go, Juneteenth was a focal turning point in their history.
How is it Celebrated?
When this news reached the African Americans, they started praising God to express their gratitude. They wore new clothes as a toast to their new beginning.
The celebrations have continued, but the ways have changed. While some African Americans still follow the same practice of praying and chanting hymns, others have taken Juneteenth one step ahead.
Music festivals, political events, and parties to stand in solidarity with their ancestors. Many white Americans also participate in these celebrations. Most people come together for cookouts, neighborhood barbecues, block parties, and music with lots of dancing to celebrate. Texas is one of the staples for celebrating Juneteenth, its nothing short of a great time!!!
What are you doing to celebrate Juneteenth this year? Comment Below.
Facts About Juneteenth
On June 17th, 2021, a bill was brought into existence by President Joe Biden, declaring Juneteenth as a federal holiday in the United States.
Juneteenth has its own flag exhibited by African Americans while on parade on this day. Most people display the flag outside their homes during Juneteenth festivals. The flag contains the standard colors of the American flag. The Texas star sits in the middle, surrounded by a zigzag symbol. This shows the star breaking free from its shackles and growing bigger and better.
A beauty pageant by the name of Miss Juneteenth is held every year. This was created after Black women were rejected to participate in a predominantly white pageant. To end white domination of Black Americans, Miss Juneteenth was created. It only allowed women of African American descent to participate.
Juneteenth is also called Freedom Day, Emancipation Day, Jubilee Day, etc.
The days following Juneteenth are known as the Scatter. This is because many African Americans started moving to other parts of America soon after being acquainted with their freedom. Some went on to build a new life for themselves. Others were in search of reuniting with their family.
