Most Black Americans know the history and the legacy of June 19, 1865, the day Union troops finally reached Galveston, Texas, announcing that enslaved people had been freed – a full two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. The celebratory day, which became known as Juneteenth, became a federal holiday in 2021. At that time, only 37% of American adults knew what the holiday meant. By 2022, 6 in 10 adults said they knew about Juneteenth, according to Gallup, growing to 9 out of 10 in 2024.
The celebration attracted dozens of residents. Photo/La Casa de Don Pedro
At
La Casa de Don Pedro, staff wanted to make sure residents had a chance to both celebrate Juneteenth and learn its meaning – including new Americans who might be unfamiliar with the history of the holiday. So this year, the NeighborWorks nonprofit hosted its first Juneteenth celebration. The event featured history,
children’s books on Juneteenth for younger participants, a dance troop and more.
"We want it to be an introduction to the holiday and we want it to be fun," Elgin Cintron, director of Communications, said on the eve of
Staff gathered to support the event and celebrate the holiday. Photo/La Casa de Don Pedro
the event. "We want to remind people that Black solidarity is a part of our organization and a part of our core values."
Cintron said education is a part of solidarity. "A lot of the people we serve are new Americans from other
The day included learning and fun. Photo/La Casa de Don Pedro
countries. They may not be familiar with the struggle of Black Americans, or realize that it’s similar to the struggle some of them are facing right now. It’s important to look at history so we can also look to the future and where we can take things. We can build solidarity and strengthen our bond."
Other NeighborWorks organizations also celebrated the holiday.
NeighborWorks Waco took part in a community parade.
Foundation Communities held a barbecue with music and games.
