Stephen F. Austin State University

A Day of Reflection

Juneteenth, the oldest nationally recognized commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States, is celebrated today. It was on June 19, 1865, Gen. Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce the Civil War had ended and all slaves had been granted freedom.

This year, it is especially important for us to pause on Juneteenth to reflect on how we — collectively and individually — will act to finally address barriers to equality that exist across our nation. We have to look back at the legacy of Abraham Lincoln to see his words during what also was a tumultuous time. In his writing of the Emancipation Proclamation, he said, “I never, in my life, felt more certain that I was doing right, than I do in signing this paper. If my name goes into history it will be for this act, and my whole soul is in it.” This document would spark a domino effect of change that led to Granger’s landing and ultimately the creation of the Juneteenth holiday.

So, as we reflect on the history of the day’s past — the people who owned slaves, the people who fought to end slavery, the political climate of the time, and most importantly the enslaved themselves — we must remember this day is not just a time to celebrate. This moment of reflection is just one step in a longer journey toward building a society-wide respect for everyone.

SFA and the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion is currently working with our students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members on identifying concrete steps to moving closer to becoming that “more perfect union.” We are dedicated to creating an environment of cultural responsiveness and relevance. Some steps are already in progress, and additional steps will be announced in the weeks ahead.

We will promote an environment where everyone who works and studies on our campus is treated with respect and where all of our students, staff and faculty have the support they need to flourish.

Dr. Scott Gordon
President