President Biden signed the legislation into law on Thursday, June 17th. Just in time for this year’s celebrations!
Juneteenth commemorates June 19th, 1865. Two and a half years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation, Gordon Granger, a Union General, rode into Galveston, Texas. Where he delivered the message that the last enslaved Americans were finally free!
General Order No. 3 states:
“The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free.”
Juneteenth celebrates the end of slavery in the United States and the enormous contributions by diverse African traditions that have enriched American identity, the arts, food, and so much more!
The Cooper Family’s mission is “To lend meaning to a community underserved and take part in its healing.” The family has championed Juneteenth and its celebration in San Diego for over 50 years. It all started with Sidney Cooper Sr. who was a businessman and pillar of the African-American community in San Diego. He led the charge in recognition of Juneteenth and continued to be the holidays’ supporter until he passed away. The Cooper Family has continued his work by celebrating this historic day at the forefront of the San Diego community.
The Cooper Family Foundation Juneteenth celebration will occur this Saturday, June 19th, from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm at Memorial Park. There will be fun and games, dancing and music, and local vendors offering African jewelry, clothing, and other items. The nonprofit Fit, Black and Educated has partnered up with this year’s celebration to host a virtual Juneteenth 5K, which will take place before the festivities begin. There will be educational discussions on African American history and culture as well as other musical performances such as dancers and drummers. There will be booths where you can go and ask about diverse topics like mental health and voter registration, as well as other local issues.