What is Juneteenth?

What is Juneteenth?

Juneteenth is a celebration that commemorates the ending of legal slavery in the United states. After President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863 there were not enough Union soldiers in Texas to enforce the new law so people remained enslaved. It wasn’t until June 19^th, 1865, two and a half years later, that the last of the enslaved people in Texas were finally freed after General Lee surrendered. 

As soon as the announcement was made, the celebration commenced. They immediately left the plantations to rejoice together, pray together, and reunite with their families!  

Every year there are celebrations across the nation to commemorate this historic day! 

Checkout juneteenth.com to learn more!

Why celebrate Juneteenth?

Although slavery is a dark part of our nation’s history, it is important that we don’t turn our backs on the truth.  

It gives us the chance to reflect as a nation, and as individuals, about how we strive to live up to our values of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. 

Juneteenth is a time for renewal, goal-setting, and a celebration of the resilience of Black Americans and the human spirit. 

How can I celebrate Juneteenth?

Make a pitcher of Juneteenth Strawberry Lemonade to share with a friend so that they can learn and enjoy the celebration too! Sing up below to receive our Juneteenth Strawberry Lemonade recipe sent straight to your inbox!

Use our Juneteenth Jubilee program to plan a special family dinner and discuss what the celebration means and why it is important.