About Juneteenth

 

Juneteenth is the name of an African American holiday, recognized in over 40 states, that commemorates the day the last of America’s slaves found out they were free. After the Civil War ended April 9, 1965, many slaves had not gotten word that slavery was indeed ended. Union soldiers crossed the slave states to make sure they knew.  Their final stop was Galveston, Texas, June 19, 1865.  Some call this America’s “second Independence Day”.  Folks in Galveston and in cities across America celebrate freedom with picnics, parades, music and festivities. Some last a day or a weekend. This year, Galveston has been celebrating since May ... 

 

I'm going to my first Juneteenth celebration this weekend in Santa Monica, California.

 

June 19, 2015 marks the 150th anniversary of the end of slavery in America.  2015 also marks 150 years since the end of the Civil War, and the 50th anniversary of numerous landmark events of the Civil Rights Movement.  All at a time when America has its first African American president, and while experiencing a resurgence of racial tension in some parts of the country.

 

I cannot ignore this convergence.

 

So this little video is a prayer, an offering, a ray of hope from me to you … 

 

Peace.

 

Bess