John,

On June 19, 1865, Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas with news that the Civil War was over, chattel slavery in the United States had ended and slaves were now free -- more than two years after President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. 

Since then, Juneteenth has been commemorated as a time for celebration, a time to connect with family, and a time to act. It marked a turning point for newly liberated slaves beginning their journey as free people.

This day is celebrated with pride and symbolizes the strength of community, unity of spirit, and resistance of people who would be free. 

Now in 2021, with Juneteenth officially declared a national holiday and in the aftermath of centuries of slavery and the legacy of institutionalized racism that has gripped our nation, we boldly fight to end systemic dehumanization and disenfranchisement of Black lives.

Efforts in multiple states across the country are currently underway to eliminate Black history from our children’s education. That’s right, Republicans are attacking Black History education. Stand with DFA as we work to stop their racist agenda.

Black Americans face systemic disadvantages stemming from the racist foundations of this country that we must mobilize to root out. 

Juneteenth, a day of celebration of Black freedom and independence, is the perfect day to stand together in solidarity and demand structural change.

Today, we find ourselves at a turning point once again, taking stock of the choices we can make to create a future of equality and true freedom. The celebration of Juneteenth shows the value and importance of hope and urgent organizing in uncertain times. 

Yet, American history classes rarely teach about Juneteenth or  the many other important moments and leaders in Black history. Republicans across this country want to keep it that way; or worse, they want to change the history we do teach to whitewash slavery or rewrite the Civil War. 

Black history is American history, and we must do more to tell the truth about our country's history, not less. And not just because it’s the truth, but also to ensure we do not repeat it.

That’s why today I encourage you to protect the teaching of black history in our schools from Republican attacks by signing our petition now!

Thank you for adding your name to this fight, and for your support. I’m glad to be in this fight together with you, especially on a day like today.

Happy Juneteenth,

— Yvette

Yvette Simpson, CEO
Democracy for America

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