Juneteenth: A Day of Reflection, Resistance, and Renewal – June 19, 2025

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Today we commemorate Juneteenth, a pivotal day in American history and a celebration of Black freedom and resilience.

What is Juneteenth?

Although President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, its promises remained unfulfilled in many parts of the Confederacy for more than two years. Enslavers in Texas, in particular, delayed the announcement. It wasn’t until June 19, 1865, when Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, with Union troops and General Order No. 3, that more than 250,000 enslaved people in Texas were informed of their freedom.

That moment—now observed as Juneteenth—marks the official end of slavery in the United States, and the beginning of a long, ongoing struggle toward justice and equity.

Why Juneteenth Matters

Juneteenth, officially recognized as a federal holiday in 2021, is more than a historic date—it is a call to action. It reminds us of the strength, endurance, and determination of Black Americans throughout history. It urges all of us to confront the legacy of slavery and systemic racism, and to celebrate Black culture, history, and contributions to our shared society.

At UWSP Libraries, we support education as a tool for transformation. We invite you to engage with our resources to learn more about the meaning of Juneteenth and the broader context of Black history in America.

Explore and Reflect (a few highlighted titles)

● On Juneteenth by Annette Gordon-Reed 

● What is Juneteenth? by Kirsti Jewel; illustrated by Manuel Guiterrez 

● Four Hundred Souls: A Community History of African America 1619-2019 by Ibram X. Kendi and Keisha N. Blain 

● The Color of Law: A Forgotten History of How Our Government Segregated America by Richard Rothstein 

● Lies My Teacher Told Me: Everything Your American History Textbook Got Wrong by James W. Loewen 

● The 1619 Project: A New Origin Story by Nikole Hannah-Jones

Visit the UWSP Libraries

Whether you’re just beginning to explore this history or deepening your understanding, we invite you to explore our resources. 

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