Welcome to the Silver Spring Neighborhood Blog and News Center

Hero of the Week 6/18/21 (Juneteenth)

Posted by Silver Spring Neighborhood Center - 2021-06-18 13:29:55

For today's HERO OF THE WEEK, we look not at current heroes but those of the past.

 

Today we want to wish a Happy Juneteenth to everyone and share a bit about the importance of this holiday...

From its Galveston, Texas origin in 1865, the observance of June 19th as the African American Emancipation Day has spread across the United States and beyond.

 

Today Juneteenth commemorates African American freedom and emphasizes education and achievement. It is time marked with celebrations, guest speakers, picnics and family gatherings.

It is a time for reflection and rejoicing. It is a time for assessment, self-improvement and for planning the future.

 

Its growing popularity signifies a level of maturity and dignity in America long over due. In cities across the country, people of all races, nationalities and religions are joining hands to truthfully acknowledge a period in our history that shaped and continues to influence our society today.

 

So for today, we commend the heroes of the past who worked tirelessly in the pursuit of progress. We are where we are today due to the work of those before us and we hope to honor them by continuing their fight.

 

Please enjoy your Juneteenth weekend!

Loading Conversation