Grant Family Medicine Residency

What is Juneteenth?
Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. Dating back to 1865, it was on June 19th that the Union soldiers landed at Galveston, Texas with news that the war had ended and that the enslaved were now free. Note that this was two and a half years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation - which had become official January 1, 1863. As newly freed people moved and settled throughout the country, they brought with them memories of that great day in 1865 and the celebration of the day became known as "Juneteenth".

Why does Juneteenth matter?
Juneteenth today celebrates African American freedom and achievement, while encouraging continuous self-development and respect for all cultures. It also commemorates the events of 1865 in Texas and serves as a reminder that there is still much work to be done to achieve true equity for African Americans today.

How do we celebrate Juneteenth?
Celebrations usually involve a range of activities for entertainment and abundant food representing the heritage of the participants. Education and self-improvement are also almost always a focus of Juneteenth. We will be celebrating at Grant Family Medicine with food and more information about the history of Juneteenth as well as ways to continue to tackle systemic racism.(Source: juneteenth.com)

How can I learn more?
Check out the links below.

• Juneteenth.com - tons of information about the history of Juneteenth and ongoing efforts to make it a federal holiday

• History of Juneteenth - 40 min video of a presentation by Dr Shennette Garrett-Scott at the Allen Public Library in Allen, TX

• This is Why Juneteenth is Important for America - 3 1/2 minute video from The Root

• Lift Every Voice and Sing - brief CBS Sunday Morning segment on the history of a poem & song that has been called the “black national anthem”