The Federal proclamation of Juneteenth as a National Holiday is but another step toward America’s resolution to deal with its dark history of Racism. While we pause to recognize the late arrival of the announcement of the Emancipation Proclamation in Texas let us also remember there still remains issues of voter suppression, the passage of federal anti-lynching laws, inequity across the digital landscape, unfair sentencing guidelines, and school-to-prison pipeline that all lie in the shadows awaiting the arrival of their delayed announcement of freedom.
We may “celebrate” but we are not asleep and we will not forget that the struggle is real and still continues.
Rev. Ellsworth L. Tolliver
Ward 3 Councilman
Patricia W Deitz says
Thank you Reverend Tolliver for your essential reminder. The attacks on Critical Race Theory demonstrate how great the need continues to be to fill the knowledge gap about the far reaching effects of slavery on this country. We need to commit to keep on marching forward with meaningful changes in laws and understanding.
Maria Wood says
I agree. This important but symbolic step must not take the place of real progress toward a “more perfect union” that makes equity, dignity, and hope available to all.