Rangel Observes Juneteenth Independence Day

Statement

Congressman Charles B. Rangel, who represents the 13th Congressional District of New York that includes Upper Manhattan and parts of the Bronx, released the following statement in observance of National Juneteenth Independence Day, which is this Sunday, June 19, 2016.

"I am proud to highlight the significance of Juneteenth Independence Day, which marks the day that the last group of enslaved persons finally learned of their liberation. While they had been freed by the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, those enslaved in Galveston, Texas remained unaware until June 19, 1865, when Major General Gordon Granger and his troops marched into town to announce the news. We remember this day to honor not only those who were kept from liberation, but also the millions who spent their entire lives enduring the shackles of slavery.

America has undoubtedly made progress since the days of slavery. I am honored to represent a historical district that has given rise to cultural and social movements such as the Harlem Renaissance and was home to notable figures like author James Baldwin and activist June Jordan, amongst other influential people. However, the fight for liberty and equality is far from over. We must continue our efforts to ensure civil rights for everyone. This is why I am an original cosponsor of the resolution, "2016 Observance of the Historical Significance of Juneteenth Independence Day," to celebrate the resilience and perseverance of African Americans. African American history is American history.

Juneteenth serves as a reminder for Americans at all corners of the country to educate ourselves on the silenced histories of our nation and to recognize that the vestiges of slavery still exist. We must remember our past so that we ensure it never happens again. We must continue to foster a world where everyone is granted equal freedoms."

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