Juneteenth is a federal holiday celebrated on June 19, commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. In 1865, Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the end of slavery, over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed by President Abraham Lincoln.
Juneteenth serves as a day of reflection on the contributions of African Americans throughout U.S. history. It is a celebration of African-American culture and heritage, a time to recognize progress, and a call to continue to pursue human flourishing and justice.
For Christians, Juneteenth is more than a important historical milestone; it resonates deeply with our biblical faith. The Bible is filled with stories of God delivering His people from slavery, reflecting His desire for freedom for all. From the Exodus of the Israelites to the freedom from sin through Christ, we see a divine mandate for freedom and justice.
Paul writes in Galatians 5:13-14:
“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.'”
This is a clear teaching that shows the importance for us to walk in freedom and that walk is marked by a life of loving and serving others around us.
See the video below featuring Immanuel Mason (’27), a Communication major from Philadelphia:
FURTHER READING FROM OUR BLOG:
- Director of Library Services and Church Historian Dr. Mark Draper writes for Juneteenth 2023 that “we celebrate the advances that have been made, but is important to be mindful that it was a long, hard road. Just as the Declaration of Independence declared freedom, it did not guarantee it.” Continue reading…
- In June 2023, LBC | Capital Adjunct Professor Dr. Malcolm T. Byrd led efforts that enabled K-12 students from the Philadelphia area learn more about Juneteenth and travel to the nation’s capital to celebrate. Continue reading…