Juneteenth — recognized annually on June 19 — is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. This year marks the 157th year of its recognition and first anniversary as a federal holiday – nationally acknowledging slavery as core to the historical oppression and persistent inequities impacting Black communities across the United States. 

On the heels of the COVID-19 pandemic and the murders of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, which opened wide the lens on injustice, President Joe Biden on June 17, 2021 signed into law a national declaration of America acknowledging its past.  

The recognition and celebration of Juneteenth is an important moment to pause with the thought that not all Americans were free when the Declaration of Independence was signed on July 4th, 1776. While traditionally celebrated as the nation’s transition to freedom, not all were free or citizens. The coming of freedom would remain long and deceptive for slaves for another 87-89 years, during which time the Emancipation Proclamation was signed on Jan. 1, 1863, declaring all enslaved people in states engaged in rebellion against the Union “shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free.” It was news that reached Galveston, in the Confederate state of Texas, two-and-a-half years later on June 19, 1865. The day marked and celebrated still today as “Juneteenth,” also known as Freedom Day and Jubilee. Five months later the 13th Amendment was adopted, formally abolishing slavery. 

The diversity of families is rooted in First 5 LA’s work. As is the measure of inequities that marginalize families and their access to needed systems and services. This Juneteenth and throughout each year we lift-up important work still before us and this nation to end racial disparities and celebrate equity for all.

Support your child’s curiosity and understanding of racial equity and Black history in America. Follow the link for events and resources.

Learning Resources

Events




Filipino American History Month 2024: Pioneers of Change

Filipino American History Month 2024: Pioneers of Change

October 2024 According to historians, the Spanish galleon Nuestra Senora de Esperanza made landfall at Morro Bay on a foggy, overcast day in October, four-hundred thirty-seven years ago. That ship, part of the Manila-Acapulco Galleon Trade Route, counted among its...

A Sisterhood for Saving Lives

A Sisterhood for Saving Lives

By, Ruel Nolledo | Freelance Writer September 17, 2024 How fostering connections in one of L.A.'s largest regions can help in the fight against Black infant and maternal mortality. We got this. We got this. Whitney Shirley repeated the phrase over and over, like a...

National Hispanic Heritage Month 2024: Pioneers of Change

National Hispanic Heritage Month 2024: Pioneers of Change

September 2024 September 15 marks the beginning of National Hispanic Heritage Month, a time when we commemorate the rich tapestry of history, traditions, culture and contributions of Hispanic Americans. Unlike other heritage months, this celebration begins mid-month...

Pride Month 2024: Empowering Change in Los Angeles

Pride Month 2024: Empowering Change in Los Angeles

June 2024 Summer kicks off with Pride Month! This month-long event is held in June to commemorate the 1969 Stonewall Riots in New York City and to celebrate the history and achievements of the LGBTQ+ community. At the same time, Pride Month is an opportunity to...

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