JUNETEENTH READ OF THE DAY
Although U.S. President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation ending slavery on Jan. 1, 1863, freedom didn’t come for enslaved African Americans living in Texas until June 19, 1865 -- a full two and a half years later.
Today that anniversary, known as Juneteenth, is celebrated as “emancipation day” with parades, picnics, family gatherings and public celebrations. Many also fly the Juneteenth flag, which echoes the red, white and blue of the U.S. flag, and features a center star representing Texas, and an outer starburst representing a new beginning for African Americans.
“Juneteenth is a time of celebration for all Americans,” said J. Philippe Abraham, NYSUT secretary treasurer. “I encourage members to learn more about this important holiday and share that knowledge with their students.”
Union General Gordon Granger traveled to Galveston, Texas to issue General Order Number 3, which officially enforced the Emancipation Proclamation, after Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee surrendered in April.
What is Juneteenth?
Juneteenth celebrates the end of African American slavery in the United States. President Joe Biden established Juneteenth as a federal holiday in 2021.
PO1 William "Chip" Nagel Lt Col Charlie Brown SSG Michael Noll Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen Cpl Vic Burk SGT Charlie Lee
PO2 Marco Monsalve SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth ]
SSG William Jones Sgt (Join to see) SrA John Monette SFC Bernard Walko
SPC Michael Terrell SMSgt Anil Heendeniya CPL Douglas Chrysler A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney GySgt Jack Wallace CDR Andrew McMenamin, PhD SGT Mark Anderson SGT Steve McFarland