(Black PR Wire) Happy Juneteenth! On June 19th, we celebrate the freedom of African Americans from slavery in the U.S.  This momentous occasion was proclaimed a federal holiday by President Joe Biden in 2021.

The day marks the abolition of slavery and the liberation of African Americans. Major General Gordon Granger landed in Texas on this day 155 years ago to declare the ending of slavery. Since then, Juneteenth has been the oldest nationally recognized celebration.

Juneteenth is important to Black culture as it was the beginning of all Blacks finally being seen as people. We were no longer objects or property that could be torn away from our families and forced into poor conditions that could lead to the death of our ancestors.

Originally, African Americans would celebrate Juneteenth by wearing new clothes, singing spirituals, and attending prayer meetings. Now, we come together to celebrate our rich culture and heritage with music, food, parades, and festivals. Most importantly, we take the time to learn of our past so we can truly understand what we must do as a society to carry the torch and continue the legacy of the many prominent Black figures before us. Happy Juneteenth, everyone!