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Juneteenth

Juneteenth

Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, has been celebrated by African American people and others since 1865, marking the date that enslaved people living in the state of Texas were officially granted their freedom, almost two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed by President Abraham Lincoln. Observing Juneteenth allows us all a moment to reflect on how we can continue to do our part in advancing racial equity by acknowledging the inequalities and injustices our communities face through our shared commitment to creating a university community that supports diversity, equity, and inclusion at all levels. 

If this is a new holiday for you, we invite you to learn more about this history through exploring resources such as those provided by the National Museum of African American History and Culture. If this is a holiday you have long celebrated, we offer to join you in solidarity as we move toward a future that lives up to the ideals of liberty and justice for all.