On the occasion of Juneteenth Today, Monday, June 19, 2023, the United States Embassy in Zambia celebrated the end of slavery in the United States and the historical struggle of African Americans to get freedom and equality and honoured the contribution of President Abraham Lincoln to emancipate enslaved Africans in America.
Juneteenth stands as a symbol of resilience, a day to honour the strength and contributions of African Americans throughout history while also acknowledging the ongoing struggle for racial equity.
While celebrating Juneteenth, the United States Embassy in the United Kingdom took to their official social media handle Today, Monday, June 19, 2023, to share some historical facts about the day’s importance in Zambia.
As per the update shared by the United States Embassy in Zambia, On June 19, 1865, nearly two years after President Abraham Lincoln emancipated enslaved Africans in America, Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas, with news of freedom. Over 250,000 African Americans embraced freedom by executive decree on what became Juneteenth or Freedom Day.
With the principles of self-determination, citizenship, and democracy magnifying their hopes and dreams, those Texans held fast to the promise of true liberty for all. – Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture.
While highlighting the freedom struggle of African Americans from slavery, the Embassy added that today, they celebrate the end of slavery in the United States and the historic struggle for freedom and equality.
Juneteenth is a reminder of the long and challenging journey that African Americans have undertaken to gain their rightful place in American society.
Further, The US Embassy also announced that it will remain closed today to honour the legacy of those who came before us and work together to build a more just and equitable future. “Happy Juneteenth!” Embassy wished.
