On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, issuing an order that freed the local enslaved people, who were the last known African Americans in bondage. Today, Juneteenth is recognized as a national celebration of freedom, and the sacrifices necessary to preserve liberty and equality, particularly for those of us of African descendent.

Today, I am grateful for the strength and sacrifices of my ancestors, who survived enslavement, segregation and discrimination and still found ways to have love, joy, hope and purpose in their lives, even during the darkest and most difficult times. Their examples inspire me, and keep me committed to living fully and faithfully, and committed to service, so that I too might set an example for the next generation.

As you commemorate this day of hard-fought freedom, I urge you to remember those whose struggles enabled our progress. Right now, civic engagement is the ultimate tribute to their lives and work. Participating in the government they helped build, exercising the right to vote that they fought to secure will pave the way for better and brighter futures for our city and our nation.

Freedom isn’t free, we must earn it by standing up for what is right, just like our brave foremothers and forefathers. Wishing you strength, integrity and resilience as we follow in their footsteps.

With gratitude,

Shawyn