Observing Juneteenth
June 17, 2022 - 8:20 a.m.
This Sunday, June 19, we commemorate Juneteenth. Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States and has been recognized and celebrated since June 19, 1865, when General Gordon Granger and federal troops arrived in Galveston to ensure all enslaved people in Texas were freed.
Last year, Congress passed and the President signed into law legislation establishing a U.S. federal holiday, Juneteenth National Independence Day. The Juneteenth holiday at SFA is recognized this year on Monday, June 20.
This day prompts us to understand that our nation’s past is a shared one so we can seek a better future through an engaged present. Let’s continue open and active dialogue to renew our commitment to a just, equitable and compassionate society.
At SFA, we are proud to celebrate change agents and ensure their work does not go unnoticed or forgotten. We are grateful for all individuals who improve the lives of others and welcome the opportunity to foster positive advocacy among our faculty, staff and students.
We are grateful for this day of celebration and commit that as we celebrate freedom for all, we will continue to work for a better future for all.
Dr. Steve Westbrook, President