While this is only the second year that Juneteenth has been recognized as a federal holiday, it’s been celebrated by African American communities across the country since 1865. What is Juneteenth and how did it originate? On January 1st, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, which proclaimed that all of the enslaved were now free people. However, it wasn’t until June 19th, 1865, when the news finally reached the city of Galveston, TX. On that day, the last of the slaves were informed of their freedom— sparking celebrations all throughout African American communities. The reason that it took two and a half years for the news to reach Galveston is still debated today. Regardless, Juneteenth celebrates the victories of African Americans all across the United States and the achievements they will continue to make. (Source: Juneteenth.com) Uprising wishes a happy and safe Juneteenth to all who are celebrating! ❤️