Juneteenth started in Galveston, Texas - the birthplace of a national celebration | Today news

Galveston, Texas, holds a unique and powerful place in American history as the birthplace of Juneteenth, the holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. On June 19, 1865, the Union major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston and General Order No. 3 issued and announced the freedom of addicted people in Texas – more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. The order not only emphasizes freedom, but also equality of personal rights and property rights between former masters and slaves. It was a seismic shift for the approximately 250,000 addicted African Americans in Texas who remained in slavery long after freedom was legally granted. Celebrations start with the first Juneteenth celebrations that started a year later, in 1866. Freedom communities in Texas have arranged prayer meetings, braai, music and gatherings to honor the historic day. Over time, the tradition of the US spread as Afro -Americans migrated from Texas to other parts of the country and carried the legacy of Juneteenth with them. Recognition and National Meaning Texas became the first state to declare Juneteenth an official state holiday in 1980. In 2021, President Joe Biden signed legislation that Juneteenth made a federal holiday – officially known as Juneteenth National Independence Day – who recognizes it as an important moment in the American story of freedom and justice. Meaning of Juneteenth Juneteenth, short for “June nineteenth”, represents: freedom delayed, but not denied. The end of slavery in the last Confederate state. A moment of liberation and new beginning for African Americans. A day to honor black history, culture and achievements. This is often called ‘America’s second independence day’. Galveston Today: A Living Memorial Today, Galveston has special meaning during the celebration of the Juneteenth celebrations, with historical reopens, parades, educational opportunities and visits to landmarks such as Ashton Villa, where the Order of General Granger is commemorated. Juneteenth’s birthplace is not just a city on the Golf Coast in Texas – it is a symbol of delayed justice, community feather and the ongoing pursuit of true equality in America. IMPORTANT HISTORICAL MELLONS January 1, 1863 – President Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation and releases all addicted people in the Confederate States. However, maintenance relied on trade union troops that gain control. June 19, 1865 – Major -General Gordon Granger Land in Galveston and read General Order No. 3, and announce that “all slaves are free.” This day is known as Juneteenth. 1866 – The first Juneteenth celebrations take place in Texas with food, prayer, music and community – start a tradition that would spread throughout the country. 1872 -Previously, African Americans in Houston raised money to buy Emancipation Park to host the annual Juneteenth celebrations. 1960’s-70’s-Juneteenth experienced a revival during the civil rights movement, which links the past struggle for freedom with the ongoing struggle for equality. 1980 – Texas becomes the first state to officially recognize Juneteenth as a state holidays. June 17, 2021 – Juneteenth becomes a federal holiday when President Joe Biden signs it in law and officially recognizes it as the Juneteenth National Independence Day. Juneteenth cultural interest Juneteenth represents more than the end of slavery – it symbolizes: delayed freedom and the perseverance of African Americans. Recognition of black history and contributions to the United States. A call to continue the struggle for civil rights, fairness and justice. Juneteenth – Why it matters Juneteenth is a powerful symbol of: Hope – which marks the beginning of a long journey to equality. TRIAL TEACHING that freedom did not reach all Americans at the same time. Celebration – with parades, music, food, family meetings and community opportunities.