What is Juneteenth? The simplified explanation is that it is the celebration of the freedom of the last of the enslaved African Americans in America from Texas in 1865. While most of the States heard freedom ring for all enslaved peoples in 1863, the then still Confederate run state of Texas held out for two more years, until Union troops marched into Galveston Bay proclaiming freedom for all on June 19, 1865. The Union Army noted that over 250,000 people were freed that day by executive decree.
Juneteenth has become a second Independence Day for many Americans. It is a day that demonstrates that one should never relinquish hope, even in the darkest of times. It empowers us all in the knowledge that tomorrow will be brighter. In honor of this incredible celebration, the Floyd County Library has some amazing events to commemorate this freedom decree:
Tuesday, June 13 – Public Viewing of High on the Hog:Freedom: Event Details
Wednesday, June 14 – Music & Cuisine of Juneteenth with Troy Bell: Event Details
There will also be story times for the children throughout the week, during our regular story time days, memorializing this special independence day.
We look forward to seeing you here at the library!
