Unless you grew up with an awareness of this day, you may be unfamiliar about what it is or why it matters that we come together as a nation to observe Juneteenth.
So let’s take a few moments today to talk about it.
What Is Juneteenth?
The term “Juneteenth” is a portmanteau of “June” and “nineteen” – a colloquial term referring to the day when the last of African American slaves in the nation finally heard the words that they, no doubt, prayed for their whole lives: they were finally free.
On June 19th, 1865, general Gordon Granger and his union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas to announce the end of the civil war and enforce the Emancipation Declaration that president Abraham Lincoln had signed into law two years prior.
Due to multiple factors, the news had been delayed reaching the ears of the enslaved people of Texas: the scarcity of union soldiers in Texas to enforce the president’s new orders, poor communication, and Texan slave-owners who lied to the people they were unlawfully enslaving.
But on that day that the union soldiers arrived in the rebel state of Texas, 250,000 people, all created in the image of The Creator, were freed.
Early celebrations of Juneteenth began the following year in 1866 in church communities within the state of Texas. By the 1930s, it was widely celebrated by African Americans across the country, with greater recognition forming over the decades.
In 2021, Juneteenth was officially recognized as a national holiday in America when President Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law. Today, Juneteenth serves as both a celebration of freedom and a time for reflection on the ongoing journey toward racial equality.
How Shall We Observe Juneteenth?
Juneteenth holds particular significance for followers of Christ, as it powerfully echoes the gospel’s core message of freedom. As believers, we understand that true freedom—spiritual and physical—is at the heart of God’s redemptive plan. Juneteenth invites us to reflect on that sacred truth.
Additionally, justice is a foundational principle of the Christian faith. Scripture calls us to seek justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. The observance of Juneteenth is deeply intertwined with that pursuit of justice, reminding us of both the progress made and the work that remains.
Rather than treating Juneteenth as a day off, it’s important to acknowledge its significance and the history behind it.
Are you looking for some meaningful ways to mark Juneteenth? Here are a few ideas you may want to consider:
- Check to see if there are any local community gatherings you can attend: In many places, festivals are held to celebrate Juneteenth. These gatherings can be a great way to meet new people and learn more about our nation’s history and the many positive ways in which African Americans have been integral to building up the USA as we know it today.
- Educate yourself about the history of Juneteenth through reading: The National Museum of African American History has helpfully curated a reading list with Juneteenth in mind. Check it out here.
- Support Black owned businesses: By supporting Black-owned business, you are contributing to economic empowerment and elevating resources within the community, both locally and nationally, that are important.
Most importantly, particularly for those who are not African American, respectful observance of Juneteenth means approaching the day with humility, recognizing it as a time for reflection on both historical and contemporary racial issues both inside and outside of the church.
Observing Juneteenth in Christian Community
This Juneteenth we hope that you will consider attending NAAMC’s annual conference in Charlotte, North Carolina.
“This year’s theme, “Leading Movements,” highlights the transformative work of today’s Black missionaries while uncovering the remarkable legacy of African American missions, beginning with George Liele, the first American missionary to leave the shores of the United States to help fulfil the Great Commission. Over three days, attendees will experience powerful keynote addresses, dynamic workshops, and uplifting worship as we honor the pioneers of African American missions and equip a new generation to lead impactful movements for God’s Kingdom. Join us!”
The conference will be held June 19-21 at The Park Church, and is sure to be a beautiful time of learning and fellowship with like-minded believers who long to see the gospel reach the farthest corners of the earth.
Mission Partners For Christ will be there too! So be sure to stop by our exhibition booth and say hello to Jeremiah!
