June 19, known as Juneteenth, marks one of the most pivotal moments in American history – the day when the last enslaved African Americans in the United States were finally told they were free. It is a day that represents the end of slavery, but more importantly, it signifies the beginning of a continued journey toward justice, equality, and healing.
The Historical Significance of Juneteenth
While President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, declaring that all enslaved people in Confederate states were free, it took over two years for the message to reach all parts of the country. On June 19, 1865, Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, with the news that the Civil War had ended – and that enslaved people were now free. This moment became a symbol of delayed liberation, and the day has since been commemorated as Juneteenth.
Juneteenth is more than a historical milestone. It is a deeply human story, a story of resilience, struggle, and ultimately, triumph. It is a day to honor the lives and legacies of those who were enslaved. It is a time to celebrate Black culture, creativity, and achievement – and to recognize how much Black Americans have given to the soul of this nation, despite enduring centuries of injustice.
But perhaps most of all, Juneteenth invites us to pause. To reflect. To remember what has been overcome, and to acknowledge how far we still have to go. It is a reminder that freedom must be nurtured, equality must be defended, and justice must be pursued with intention and heart.
How to Honor Juneteenth with Purpose
There are many meaningful ways to engage with Juneteenth, each rooted in learning and community:
- Show Up: Attend local celebrations like parades, art festivals, or educational panels. In St. Louis, there are several events being held where you can show your support.
- Learn: Spend time reading, listening, and exploring the stories that shaped our country. Museums, libraries, and historical centers – including the Griot Museum of Black History – offer powerful exhibits that help us understand the past more fully.
- Support Black–Owned Businesses: Choose to economic empowerment by shopping at Black-owned establishments. It’s a simple but powerful act of solidarity and investment in equity.
- Give Back: Volunteer your time or donate to organizations committed to social justice and racial equality. Whether it’s mentoring youth, supporting community initiatives, or standing beside advocacy groups, your contribution matters.
- Lift Black Voices: Use your platforms to share literature, music, art, and thought leadership from Black creators and changemakers. Stories shape the world, and every voice deserves to be heard.
- Have the Hard Conversations: Sit down with friends, colleagues, and family to talk about the realities of slavery’s legacy and the presence of inequality today. These conversations aren’t always easy, but they are necessary.
SWMW Law and Juneteenth: Standing with Purpose
At SWMW Law, we believe in justice not only as a legal principle but as a human one. That’s why our offices will be closed on Juneteenth – to allow space for our team to remember, to celebrate, and to recommit to the ongoing fight against racism and discrimination.
Our firm stands behind the words in our mission – Because People Matter. And because they do, we continue to support causes that move the needle toward equity and justice. This year, as in years past, we are proud to contribute to The Black Repertory Company – an organization creating powerful change through advocacy and the arts.
We invite you to join us in remembering the past, honoring the present, and in building a more just future.
Juneteenth is about freedom. But it’s also about action. It’s a day to ask ourselves not just what freedom meant in 1865 – but what it must mean today.
Let’s celebrate.
Let’s listen.
Let’s learn.
And above all, let’s keep doing the work.
