June 19, 2021 - June 19th is recognized as Juneteenth, or Freedom Day. It is a day of recognition, restoration, and celebration of African American freedom and achievement, while encouraging continuous self-development and respect for all cultures. SSD solidifies our commitment in standing in solidarity with all students, staff, and community members who have experienced hardships, mistreatment, or harassment due to the color of their skin. We honor and recognize the contributions that people of color have made today and throughout history. 

Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, which declared more than three million slaves as free men and women. On June 19, 1865, two years after the signing, Texas residents finally learned that slavery had been abolished. The now free African Americans began celebrating immediately. These celebrations have continued into the 21st century, transforming into a time of reflection and rejoicing. On June 17, 2021, President Joe Biden signed legislation establishing Juneteenth as a US federal holiday.

SSD hopes that our community of all races, nationalities, and religions join hands to acknowledge a period in history that shaped and continues to influence our society today. In hopes of recognizing and honoring African American and black culture throughout history, we provide the following resources to help encourage conversations of race, equality, and inclusion:

• Missouri Historical Society’s 2021 Juneteenth Celebration
• Juneteenth Celebration at The Field House
• Juneteenth.com
• Justice In June - 10-, 20-, 45-minute daily practices to become a better ally
• So You Want to Learn About Juneteenth? - New York Times
• Teaching Juneteenth - Learning for Justice
• This is Why Juneteenth is Important for America - YouTube Video
• "Juneteenth for Maize" by Floyd Cooper
• "Juneteenth" by Drew Nelson and Vaunda Micheaux Nelson