The History of Juneteenth: Its Significance Today and Alignment with the Goals and Mission of Peace Economy Project
Why Peace Economy Project is Talking About Juneteenth
As PEP’s executive director and as an African American, I spend a great deal of time thinking about how this organization can contribute to a world where people are treated equally regardless of the color of their skin. When we think about economics, military spending, and the budget, it is important to understand history and the role race plays in decision-making.
The History of Juneteenth
Juneteenth, a portmanteau of “June” and “nineteenth,” commemorates the day on June 19, 1865, when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the end of the Civil War and the abolition of slavery. This was a full two and a half years after President Abraham Lincoln had signed the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863. The delay in enforcement of the Proclamation in Texas was due to the minimal presence of Union troops to enforce the new Executive Order and the ongoing resistance of slaveholders.
General Order No. 3, delivered by General Granger, proclaimed: “The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free.” This declaration marked a significant milestone in American history, symbolizing the end of centuries of enslavement and the beginning of the long and arduous journey towards equality and civil rights for African Americans.
The Significance of Juneteenth Today
Today, Juneteenth is a celebration of freedom and a recognition of the ongoing struggle for racial equality. It is a day to honor the history, culture, and achievements of African Americans while reflecting on the work that remains to be done to achieve true equality and justice. The day is marked by community gatherings, educational events, cultural celebrations, and reflections on African American history and contributions.
Personally, I like to spend Juneteenth with my family celebrating the contributions African Americans have made to society. This usually involves reading Zora Neale Hurston or watching a lot of movies. Today, however, I am working because I feel like it is important to share my perspective on Juneteenth in the hopes of inspiring you to celebrate this much-revered day.
In recent years, Juneteenth has gained more recognition and was declared a federal holiday in the United States on June 17, 2021. This recognition serves as a reminder of the nation’s history of slavery and the enduring impact of systemic racism. It also provides an opportunity to recommit to the values of justice, equality, and freedom for all.
Juneteenth and the Goals and Mission of Peace Economy Project
The Peace Economy Project (PEP) is dedicated to advocating for the reallocation of resources from military spending to human needs such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. The mission of PEP aligns closely with the spirit of Juneteenth in several ways:
1. Advocacy for Social Justice: Just as Juneteenth is a symbol of the struggle for freedom and equality, PEP advocates for a society where resources are used to uplift and empower communities rather than perpetuate violence and conflict. PEP’s efforts to reduce military spending and redirect funds towards social programs aim to address systemic inequalities and promote social justice.
2. Empowerment and Education: Juneteenth celebrations often include educational components that inform communities about African American history and the ongoing fight for civil rights. Similarly, PEP emphasizes the importance of education in creating a more informed and engaged citizenry. By educating the public about the impacts of military spending and the benefits of investing in social programs, PEP empowers individuals to advocate for change.
3. Community Building: Juneteenth fosters a sense of community and solidarity, bringing people together to celebrate freedom and reflect on shared history. PEP’s work in coalition-building and community engagement is vital in creating a united front for advocacy. By collaborating with diverse organizations and communities, PEP strengthens its efforts to promote peace and justice.
4. Focus on Human Needs: The end of slavery marked a new beginning for African Americans, highlighting the importance of addressing basic human needs such as education, employment, and healthcare. PEP’s mission to redirect military spending towards these critical areas aligns with the goal of improving the quality of life for all, particularly those historically marginalized and underserved.
5. Vision for a Just Society: Juneteenth is a reminder of the nation’s potential for change and the importance of continuing to strive for a just and equitable society. PEP’s vision of a peace economy, where resources are used to support human development and well-being, reflects the ongoing pursuit of justice that Juneteenth represents.
I hope this Juneteenth inspires you to advocate for change. Its significance today is a powerful reminder of the need to address systemic injustices and work towards a society that values freedom, equality, and justice for all. The goals and mission of the Peace Economy Project align with the spirit of Juneteenth by advocating for the reallocation of resources to human needs, promoting education and empowerment, and building strong, just communities. As we celebrate Juneteenth, let us also commit to the work of creating a more equitable and peaceful world.
In solidarity,
Katerina Canyon, Executive Director
Peace Economy Project
