HARTFORD, Conn. — This is only the fourth year Juneteenth has been observed as a federal holiday, but the origins of this day date back nearly 160 years.
The holiday commemorates the day Union soldiers marched to Galveston, Texas in 1865, to inform thousands of enslaved people they were now free, two years after President Abraham Lincoln’s emancipation proclamation.
“It brings to remembrance for me, the joy and the jubilation that our ancestors had to feel on that day,” said state Rep. Robyn Porter, (D-Hamden).
The Connecticut Commission on Women, Children, Seniors, Equity & Opportunity hosts the annual event to commemorate the significant day.
“My ancestors were like one of the last people to hear about the Emancipation Proclamation, so I really think this highlights like the strength that we upheld and the spirit that we maintain through these trying times,” said rising senior at the Watkinson School Charles Taylor. “It reminds everybody of like how far we've come.”
Taylor is a saxophonist and played the Negro National Anthem Wednesday as part of the celebration.
“All I have to do is really close my eyes and I kind of like, become one with the song really, and obviously this song is something I hold really dear,” he added.
Attendees reflected on the day through that music as well as movement. The Caribbean American Dance Company performed what’s called the reception dance.
“The dance, as you can see are high-class ladies and our dancers,” explained Judith Williams, president of the Caribbean American Dance Company. “So this represents the freedom of slavery, where, you know, you have the high class, dance, and then, but this is everyone coming together.”
While this day is for celebration, organizers said it’s also about recognizing historical significance and acknowledging the past, even if it’s uncomfortable.
“The event of slavery was a very traumatic time for us, when we still carry these traumas in our pain, whether we know it or not,” Howard K. Hill, owner of Howard K. Hill Funeral Services said.
Wednesday’s event also featured a panel discussion. Speakers emphasized celebrating with intention, looking back while still moving forward.
“Our country is changing for the better,” said creator of the Juneteenth Flag Ben Haith. “Everybody's ancestors are responsible, have made it possible for us to be here today, and we’re continuing their journey. We're walking through history.”
On making this flag, Haith said he thought it could use a symbol, something people could recognize because it’s such an important historical event.
Emma Wulfhorst is a political reporter for FOX61 News. She can be reached at ewulfhorst@fox61.com. Follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.
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