Author: Robin Troutman | Deputy Director | National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities

While the country celebrates the beginning of summer and the end of school, we are also commemorating Juneteenth (June 19th). This is a day that is meant to be celebrated because it was the official day that the Confederate Army surrendered to the Union in 1865. On this day, a Union General went to Galveston, Texas, and announced that all African Americans were free. In addition, the Emancipation Proclamation, although written in late 1962, was finally, fully adopted in the entire United States. On this day in 1865, 250,000 enslaved blacks in the state of Texas were freed by Executive decree.

While this is a celebration for some, the history of this day and all that led up to it, must be discussed, must be taught, and must never be forgotten.

“The historical legacy of Juneteenth shows the values of never giving up hope in uncertain times,” National Museum of African American History & Culture.

While we take a pause from our hectic schedules and daily life, we must remember the history of our country, both good and bad. Take a trip to the National Museum of African American History & Culture to hear the shared stories of our past, and the new stories that are occurring. Juneteenth is a time to celebrate but also to reflect on the past and look to the future.