Today our nation celebrates Juneteenth 2022. Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. This recently-designated federal holiday commemorates African American freedom and highlights education and achievement. June 19, 1865, is the day that Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, informing enslaved African Americans that they were free. This year marks the 157th anniversary of the last African American slaves being freed in Texas.
Thank you to our friends at CERF+ for noting some great ways our GAC community can mark this holiday.
For example, the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American and History is hosting a variety of virtual and in-person events and programs, highlighting the experiences of African Americans and celebrating Juneteenth.
Our GAC community is encouraged to mark Juneteenth by learning about and supporting Black artists, businesses, and organizations. Organizations include Black Artists + Designers Guild (BADG) and Crafting the Future’s Network.
Maureen Belden
Executive Director
