Today is the 144 anniversary of Juneteenth, the annual celebration of Black freedom.

Even though the Emancipation Proclamation declared the official end of slavery on January 1, 1863, most enslaved Africans in America did not find out until much later. Among the last to find out were slaves in Galveston, Texas who did not learn of their freedom until Union soldiers marched into town on June 19, 1865.

Upon hearing the news, Black people celebrated by laughing, crying, praying, and dancing in the streets for days.

Although Juneteenth is only officially recognized as a holiday in the state of Texas, people throughout the country use the day to honor the Black freedom struggle.

Let us use this day to reflect upon and give thanks for the freedoms that we have. Also, let us renew our commitment to fight against the various forms of unfreedom that undermine all of our prosperity.

May the ancestors be pleased with us.