It was two years afterthe Emancipation Proclamation was enacted that word finally reached slaves in Galveston, Texas on June 19, 1865.
It was two years after President Abraham Lincoln delivered the Emancipation Proclamation that freed slaves in Galveston, Texas received the news on June 19, 1865.
And it took federal troops, led by Gen. Gordon Granger, to deliver the message about the ratification of the 13th Amendment before slavery was officially ended in the United States.
Marking each year with a "Juneteenth" celebration, many members of the African American community across America come together to remember their heritage and commemorate that day in Texas, including members and friends of the Flagler County African American Cultural Society.
Opening its doors to the community, the organization’s annual Juneteenth program includes cultural readings, dances and performances designed to celebrate a proud heritage and educate youth about the history of Juneteenth.
Led by Brenda Andrews, chair of this year's event, the African American Cultural Center was filled to near-capacity as people of all ages sang the Negro National Anthem, partook of Libation — a ceremony of gratitude for ancestors — and received recognition from local government officials for the contributions of African Americans to the community.
Although she was unable to attend, Palm Coast Mayor Milissa Holland sent a letter that was read to those assembled.
“Today, at this 153rd Juneteenth celebration, I am honored to represent Palm Coast to say that all of us join you in your resolute affirmation for justice,” Holland's letter read in part. “I want to say that I believe that Palm Coast citizens are models for all that should be in this nation. Against a tumultuous backdrop of divisiveness in our country, our residents stand strong as diverse friends and neighbors who honor and respect each other. The support and alliance I feel everywhere I go in Palm Coast spans all spectrums of respect. Unity is our motto, love is our bond. Accolades to you on this truly meaningful celebration.”
Andrews, a New York resident before moving to Palm Coast, said she had never heard of the Juneteenth celebration and was passionate about the meaning behind the event.
“It is the only African American observance of the freedom of slaves,” she said. “We have skits of the Emancipation Proclamation, stressing the point of what has happened and why we’re here today. I’m from New York City and I didn’t know about Juneteenth until I came here. These children down here already know about Juneteenth, so they’re taught that in the homes already. The same reason they have the Holocaust observance, because so many Africans died here in this country, this is very important because if you understand where you came from, you know where you’re going.”
African American Cultural Society president Joseph Matthews said the historic meaning behind Juneteenth is not just a single day commemoration, but an affirmation of equality every day.
“It’s not well publicized among the communities, so that’s why it’s important for us to have this celebration,” said Matthews. “Every year it gets bigger and bigger and this is one of our biggest year. We want to get the young people involved.”