Juneteenth

On June 19th, people throughout the United States will observe a historic holiday known as Juneteenth. Juneteenth celebrates the emancipation of enslaved Black and African American people in the United States. 

Though the Emancipation Proclamation of 1863 freed some enslaved people, it wasn’t until the arrival of federal troops in Galveston, Texas two years later that all enslaved people were officially notified of their freedom. This arrival marked the end of a 250-year battle for freedom, where many African Americans and Black people resisted slavery while advocating themselves, families, and communities. 

Upon hearing this news, celebrations broke out among newly freed Black people and, many honored their lost loved ones. To celebrate this joyous day, African American and Black communities began to annually celebrate the end of slavery in America with music, community gatherings, faith services, storytelling, and other activities. 

While this holiday has been recognized in African-American communities for centuries, it has recently gained greater respect and attention throughout the nation. In 2021, President Joe Biden officially signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law. This act made Juneteenth a federal holiday, finally giving it the recognition that it has deserved since its origins in 1865. 

Juneteenth is now an annual day of celebration that includes parades, music, food, and more. Cities like Houston, Atlanta, and Philadelphia celebrate Juneteenth in a major way. For years, these cities have been commemorating the holiday by putting on huge celebrations that highlight Black vendors and artists. In Houston, celebrations take place at Emancipation Park – a 10 acre lot that was purchased in 1872 by a group of freed people to celebrate Juneteenth. The annual festivities include a music festival, a parade, and a 20-mile Freedom Ride that showcases Houston’s most historic African American communities. 

Along with national celebrations, the Madison Senior Center will be celebrating Juneteenth! Our hope is to be at the beautiful new park right outside our door, but if weather does not cooperate, we will celebrate inside. Learn more about Juneteenth while you enjoy music, dancing, refreshments, and a few games. Be sure to celebrate with the Madison Senior Center and other local celebrations leading up to Juneteenth! 

As a country, America has made great strides in recognizing Juneteenth and supporting African American and Black pride, but the fight towards racial equity is not over yet. People of color are still discriminated against in America and racism is still present in a multitude of ways. While one individual cannot change this culture alone, it is every person’s responsibility to become educated on racial issues in our country and how the goals of equity and equality may eventually be met. To learn more about racial equity and how you can support the movement, check out these local organizations dedicated to the cause:

City of Madison - RESJI

Race to Equity

Dane County - Equity and Inclusion

YWCA

Madison 365

Learn more about culturally responsive programs and services that promote healthy aging for older adults at Madison Senior Center or find us on Facebook