A HISTORY OF JUNETEENTH

Also known as Freedom Day, Jubilee Day, Liberation Day, and Emancipation Day, Juneteenth is a holiday celebrating the emancipation of those who had been enslaved in the United States. 

It recalls how the states of Louisiana and Texas hadn't heard the news that President Abraham Lincoln had signed the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863. Slavery continued in those two states for more than two years after the proclamation was signed because the news had yet to travel there.

Texas and Louisiana finally announced to all people the news on June 19, 1865. Former slaves broke out in spontaneous celebration. These were dangerous times. Even in the face of resistance and threat, the formerly enslaved Africans found ways to give voice to the wide range of thoughts and emotions at the announcement of the end of legalized slavery in the United States of America.

We will observe Juneteenth here at St. Gregory’s on Saturday, June 20, at 5 pm with a brief liturgy and a very special concert by the Resurrection Steel Pan Orchestra, sponsored by our Beloved Community Ministry. The Resurrection Steel Pan Orchestra was founded in 1991 by Sherwin DeVerteuill and has performed countless concerts across many venues throughout Florida including the Miami Panorama Competition. Comprising mostly of local youth, Resurrection serves as a way for anyone wanting to learn how to play the steel pans or for those looking for a band in which to participate.

Afterwards, there will be a time of fellowship in Harris Hall with delicious food and fun activities.

Blessings,

Tim Brumfield