Commemorating Juneteenth 2024
Dear Howard University Community,
Tomorrow marks the anniversary of an event that transformed the lives of millions of African Americans and reshaped the course of our nation’s history. On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, bringing the news that the Civil War had ended and that enslaved people were now free.
This momentous occasion came more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation was signed, thereby prolonging enslavement for individuals and families who were unaware of their newfound path to freedom and equality. Over 150 years later, we recognize that freedom is not just a historical event, but an ongoing struggle that requires our vigilance, dedication, and collective action to end systemic racism, economic disparities, and social inequities. Juneteenth is a reminder of the resilience, strength, and enduring spirit coursing throughout the African American community. It serves as a day of reflection on the past, a celebration of the progress we have made, and a call to action for the work that still lies ahead.
As the president of Howard University, I am honored to lead an institution that has been at the forefront of this ongoing journey toward justice and equality. Howard was founded in 1867 – just two years after the first Juneteenth – with a mission to provide educational opportunities for African Americans and all those who had previously been denied access to learning. Since then, the University has had the privilege of cultivating the talents and achievements of our students, faculty, and alumni who continue to shape and enrich our world. Today, Howard continues to serve as a beacon of excellence, a nurturing ground for leaders, and a steadfast advocate for civil rights. Our legacy is intertwined with the very essence of Juneteenth: a testament to the unyielding quest for freedom and empowerment through education.
I encourage each of you to use tomorrow to celebrate the rich cultural heritage and contributions of all Black people. Together, we can continue to build on the progress that has been made and work towards a future that upholds the ideals of freedom and justice for all.
Committed to Truth and Service,
Ben Vinson III, Ph.D.
President