Juneteenth is a celebration that commemorates the ending of slavery. It dates back to 1865 in Galveston, Texas. The celebration is also known as Freedom Day, Emancipation Day or Independence Day. It is celebrated on June 19th. The name is derived by blending June and nineteen. Historian, Hari Jones, reminds us that African Americans actively participated in freeing themselves from slavery on that day by enforcing the Emancipation Proclamation. According to President Abraham Lincoln, “Without the military help of the Black freedmen, the war against the South could not have been won.” That fact gives us a reason to rejoice and reflect on the determination, fortitude and resiliency of our ancestors.
Community Development, Education, Hometown Heroes, Naila Smith
Zyahna Bryant: Black Woman Activist
by Naila A. Smith, PhD Zyahna Bryant is a powerhouse. At 22 years old, the Charlottesville native, youth activist, and community organizer, has shown up, spoken out, and been a catalyst for change in her community for the past decade. Zyahna’s first racial...
