Juneteenth

What exactly is Juneteenth? It is a celebration marking the end of slavery in the United States.  The first time this holiday was celebrated was June 19, 1865.  After the Civil War ended Major General Gordon Granger, arrived in Galveston, Texas.  He quickly spread the news that the war had ended and that the slaves had been freed.   As you hopefully remember from reading Lincoln's speeches, the Emancipation Proclamation freed the slaves on January 1, 1863.  Sadly, it took two years from the time the Emancipation Proclamation became law until it could be enforced in Texas.  Every year since then, Juneteenth has been celebrated on June 19th with parades, parties, and other celebrations.  This year, Juneteenth became a Federal Holiday!

Been to any good Juneteenth celebrations?  I know there are lots of great events in Long Beach, where I used to live.  If you have been to one or if you know of any upcoming events, include them in an email to Mrs. Espeseth.  She would be happy to include them in this article.