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Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. From its Galveston, Texas origin in 1865, the observance of June 19th as the African American Emancipation Day has spread across the United States and beyond. Today Juneteenth commemorates African American freedom and emphasizes education and achievement. It is a day, a week, and in some areas a month marked with celebrations, guest speakers, picnics and family gatherings. It is a time for reflection and rejoicing. It is a time for assessment, self-improvement and for planning the future. Its growing popularity signifies a level of maturity and dignity in America long over due. In cities across the country, people of all races, nationalities and religions are joining hands to truthfully acknowledge a period in our history that shaped and continues to influence our society today. Sensitized to the conditions and experiences of others, only then can we make significant and lasting improvements in our society. - Juneteenth.com

 


Juneteenth: The story behind the 155-year-old holiday that commemorates

the end of slavery | CBS This Morning

 

On June 19, 1865, 155 years ago Friday, the last group of slaves in the United States were freed. Their freedom was bittersweet -- it came two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued in 1863. CBS News special correspondent James Brown shares the story of the day that became known as Juneteenth.

 


Why all Americans should honor Juneteenth | VOX

 

A historian explains the history and significance of the holiday.

 


Grandmother of Juneteenth, Opal Lee, Shares the Importance of this Historic Holiday

| Southern Living

 

Opal Lee, known in Fort Worth as the "Grandmother of Juneteenth", is a 94-year-old trailblazer on a mission to generate greater recognition for Juneteenth across the United States. Opal has dedicated her life to educating others about the history of Juneteenth, while also encouraging them to celebrate this historic holiday each year. The Emancipation Proclamation outlawed slavery on September 22, 1862, but slaves in Texas did not know that they had been freed. So, Juneteenth was first celebrated on June 19th, 1865, when General Gordon Granger and 7,000 black troops journeyed to tell 250,000 black enslaved people in Galveston, TX that they were free. Opal Lee leads a 2.5-mile march from Downtown Fort Worth, TX to signify the remaining length of time that these slaves in Texas were left in bondage. Today, Juneteenth symbolizes freedom, and it is a call to action for unity. Therefore, Opal Lee is currently advocating for Juneteenth’s consideration as a paid federal holiday! Tune in to learn more about this historic day, and how Opal Lee encourages others to work together to eradicate the racial disparity experienced in this country.

 

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Juneteenth Food Traditions: All Red Everything | Localish

Being from Houston, Texas, Elita Adjei learned to celebrate Juneteenth the way her grandparents and their parents before them had--with food and family. Join us as we dive into some of her favorite childhood recipes, why red food is a Juneteenth tradition, and different ways each and every one of us can respect and honor this important holiday.

 


Chef Carla Hall shares delicious and meaningful recipes for Juneteenth l GMA

The author of “Carla Hall’s Soul Food: Everyday and Celebration” shares tips for making her barbecue pork tenderloin, curried sweet potato salad and watermelon strawberry slushie. GET THE RECIPES HERE: https://gma.abc/2NbEqaR

 


The Best Foods To Celebrate Juneteenth With | Thrillist

July 4 isn't the only Independence Day worth celebrating in America. Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, is celebrated all over America for the emancipation from slavery in the United States that occurred on June 19, 1865. Families across the country celebrate by breaking out their barbecues and cooking up some of their favorite bites. Here at Thrillist, we take a look at all the foods that are dished out and how you can celebrate as well.