Every year on June 19th, we celebrate freedom from slavery in honor of Texan African Americans who were liberated two and a half years after the 1863 Emancipation Proclamation. Slavery was still in practice in some U.S. regions until 1868.
Harlem United’s CEO, Jacqui Kilmer said, “Today we celebrate African American liberation, along with our many staff members who have fond memories of participating in this day of community and joy throughout their lives.
“Harlem United commends Governor Cuomo committing to advance legislation to designate Juneteenth as a State holiday to be recognized by all Americans. Juneteenth is a reminder that true equality has not yet been achieved for Black Americans.
“National protests decrying the violent police killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Tony McDade are proof that the work of true racial justice is far from over. We must continue the work of dismantling white supremacy and state-sanctioned violence against Black people and other communities of color.”