back to June 2024 newsletter
By Liliana Ramos, LMFT, President
Juneteenth is celebrated annually on June 19th. It marks the emancipation of the last enslaved African Americans in the United States. On June 19, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger announced freedom in Galveston, Texas. This is significant because Texas was the furthest West slave state in the United States. Today, this day symbolizes the end of slavery and the ongoing struggle for civil rights. It honors African American culture, history, heritage, achievements, and resilience. It also emphasizes the significance of freedom, equality, and justice for all.
Juneteenth was recognized as a federal holiday on June 19, 2021, which became a pivotal day in American history. Since then, Juneteenth has gained broader recognition and importance. It serves as a reminder of the resilience and contributions of African Americans and the ongoing struggle for freedom and justice. By celebrating Juneteenth, Americans honor the legacy of those who fought for freedom and continue to promote awareness and understanding of the enduring impact of slavery and systemic racism.
Celebrating Juneteenth encourages reflection on past injustices and promotes ongoing efforts towards a more inclusive society with racial equality and justice. It symbolizes resilience and hope while reminding us that we still struggle with systemic racism and inequality. On this day, let us celebrate the contributions of African Americans to our country and remind ourselves to work together towards racial equality, justice, and inclusivity.
In the spirit of inclusivity, a quiz on Black pioneers in psychology created by Kusum Punjabi with contributions from Erika Jenkins with contributions from Kusum Punjabi is in this newsletter for your pleasure.
