Commemorating Juneteenth: 2 Years After the Fact
In 1865, two years after the 1863 Emancipation Proclamation, which freed the enslaved people in the United States, the slaves in Texas were released.
Upon General Gordon Granger’s arrival in Texas, the whispers of freedom for slaves were just a rumor. The declaration of the Emancipation Proclamation became real when General Granger arrived in Galveston with nearly 2,000 Union troops on June 18, 1865. On the following day, June 19, from the balcony of the Ashton Villa, General Granger read “General Order 3,” that “officially” ended slavery.
The Juneteenth celebrations encouraged voter registration as early as 1870. The freedmen were frequently discouraged from voting and participating in local political life. Juneteenth is known as ‘Freedom Day,’ symbolizing our country’s second Independence Day. Although it has long been celebrated in the African American community, this monumental event remains unknown to most Americans. The heritage of Juneteenth emphasizes the value of never giving up hope in uncertain times.
In the spirit of Juneteenth to celebrate freedom and civic engagement, take some time during the holiday to learn more about who will be on your voting ballot during this election season. Your local elections are just as important as the state and national elections. The people in local elected positions are making critical decisions about your community.
Have a great Juneteenth Celebration!
Nancy Quarles
Chair, OCDP
The Oakland County Democratic Party is a 527 organization whose mission is to promote social and economic justice by building an engaged, diverse, Democratic majority in Oakland County in order to enhance the quality of life for all. Membership is open to all Oakland County residents who are eligible to vote. Our Executive Committee meets the second Tuesday of each Month at 7:00 PM. These meetings are free and open to the public. Please join us!
