Message from the Secretary: Commemorating Juneteenth

Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Jennifer Cain Bohrnstedt

Dear Colleagues,

For many, Juneteenth is not well-known. It is a day that commemorates the moment that many of the enslaved in Texas first learned they were free, when a Union general arrived in Galveston on June 19, 1865 and shared the news of emancipation. Each year, African American communities across the nation celebrate Juneteenth to mark the end of slavery. To me, Juneteenth is also a time to ponder the fragility of freedom. It is a time to remember the long fight to make freedom and equality a reality for all who called America home.

As we mourn the death of George Floyd and so many others, please take a few moments on Friday to disconnect and postpone some meetings, to gather together with your family or virtually with your friends. Give yourself time to reflect on this moment and on the ongoing struggle to help America be a country that lives up to our values. And to ponder how we can all help a nation find truth, understanding, and even hope.

At this very difficult and painful moment, I want to thank you for your commitment to the Smithsonian and to a freer and fairer America. I take personal inspiration and sustenance from all of you.

Thank you,

Lonnie

Please consider joining these virtual celebrations, offered by NMAAHC:

https://nmaahc.si.edu/event/juneteenth-celebration-resilience

https://nmaahc.si.edu/blog-post/celebrating-juneteenth

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