Peters Commemorates Juneteenth Independence Day
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) today released the following statement recognizing Juneteenth Independence Day. On June 19th each year, Juneteenth Independence Day commemorates the day the last remaining African-American slaves in Galveston, Texas, learned of their emancipation.
“Today marks the 153rd anniversary of the end of one of our nation’s darkest chapters as the last remaining slaves finally learned of their freedom. This day is an important reminder that despite the significant progress our country has made over the last century and a half, we still have a long way to go in the fight for equality.
“Our society faces challenging times: from restricted access to the ballot box to environmental injustice to a criminal justice system that is in desperate need of reform. On this day, let us recommit ourselves to overcoming these systemic challenges and ensuring that future generations of American children can achieve their dreams no matter who they are or where they live.”
Click here to read the U.S. Senate’s resolution, which Senator Peters cosponsored, honoring Juneteenth Independence Day.
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