Why Does Texas Celebrate Juneteenth? Or, Why the Rest of America Took Forever to Get the Memo
So, you're probably wondering why Texans get an extra day off in June to celebrate something called Juneteenth. Trust me, the rest of the country was wondering the same thing for a long time. Let's break it down.
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| Why Does Texas Celebrate Juneteenth |
Emancipation Proclamation: The World’s Longest Game of Telephone
You know how sometimes you tell a friend a juicy secret, and by the time it reaches the fifth person, it’s completely different? Well, imagine that on a national scale. That's basically what happened with the Emancipation Proclamation.
QuickTip: Slow down if the pace feels too fast.
President Lincoln dropped the mic (figuratively speaking, of course) with this groundbreaking document in 1863, declaring all slaves in Confederate territory to be free. But news travels slow when you’re riding a horse, and Texas, being the last frontier and all, was the last to get the memo.
QuickTip: Pause at lists — they often summarize.
June 19th: The Day Texas Finally Got the News
It wasn’t until June 19, 1865, that Union General Gordon Granger rolled into Galveston, Texas, and announced to the shocked (and, let's be honest, probably pretty confused) population that slavery was, in fact, over. This monumental moment is what we now celebrate as Juneteenth.
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From Backyard Barbecues to a National Holiday
For years, Juneteenth was primarily celebrated within the African American community with family gatherings, barbecues, and celebrations of freedom. But in recent years, there's been a growing recognition of the holiday's significance, leading to its official status as a federal holiday in 2021.
Tip: The middle often holds the main point.
So, why should you care about Juneteenth?
Because it’s a reminder of a dark chapter in American history, and a celebration of the resilience and perseverance of the African American community. It's a day to reflect, learn, and grow.
How To... Juneteenth Edition
- How to learn more about Juneteenth: Dive into history books, watch documentaries, or support local Juneteenth events.
- How to celebrate Juneteenth: Attend a local Juneteenth celebration, host a barbecue with friends, or simply take some time to reflect on the holiday’s significance.
- How to support Black-owned businesses: Show your support for the community by patronizing Black-owned businesses throughout the year.
- How to educate others about Juneteenth: Share information about the holiday with your friends, family, and colleagues.
- How to be an ally: Listen to Black voices, amplify their stories, and stand up against racism and discrimination.
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