Juneteenth: Understanding the True End of Slavery in the United States

On June 19th, the United States observes Juneteenth, a federal holiday commemorating the true end of slavery in the nation. While the Emancipation Proclamation was signed in 1863, it took two more years for the news and enforcement of freedom to reach all enslaved people. On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, finally enforcing the law and liberating over 250,000 enslaved individuals who had been deliberately kept uninformed of their freedom. This pivotal moment in American history, often overlooked in traditional educational texts, serves as a powerful reminder of delayed justice and the ongoing fight for equality. The holiday is not merely a day off, but a recognition of a crucial historical correction and a testament to the perseverance of those who fought for freedom. As the nation continues to reflect on its past, Juneteenth stands as a significant day for remembrance, education, and the acknowledgment of American history in its entirety.