by Carjamin Scott on June 18, 2018, at 10:56 p.m. CST
June 19th is Juneteenth, [June + nineteenth], the official day that Americans celebrate emancipation from slavery and black independence day. On this day in 1865, Unionist Major General Gordon Granger issued General Order No. 3. to inform the people of Texas that slaves are no longer the property of their masters. Although, the Emancipation Proclamation was issued on January 1, 1863, select border states, such as Texas, were exceptions to this rule. However, the proclamation allowed freed slaves and free blacks to fight alongside Union soldiers. Therefore, from 1863-1865, over 180,000 freed people joined the Union army and 10,000 fought in the navy, which contributed to the abolishment of legalized slavery. Juneteenth is a reminder that we cannot sit idly as injustice occurs. As you celebrate this day, reflect on the countless issues that challenge the freedom of Americans and prohibit equality. Then do your part, to do something about it.
As you celebrate this day, reflect on the countless issues that challenge the freedom of Americans and prohibit equality.
Here are three simple ways to get involved.
- Get educated on the issues and take a stand.
- Register to vote or renew your voter’s registration. The TN federal and state primary is approaching in August.
- Start locally. Get to know your elected government officials, senate district, house district, and congressional district. Attend their events, know their stance on issues, and hold them accountable.
“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
Do you feel adequately educated about the issues? Do you know your elected government officials? Are you registered to vote? Leave a comment below.
Request to publish or suggest a correction here.
Like this post? Want to see more like this? Consider supporting this blog.
Carjamin Scott can be reached at carjamin.scott@gmail.com and you can follow her on twitter @scottcarjie.
