The Daily Record
Juneteenth: A Celebration Of Freedom
Juneteenth, or June 19, is considered the date when the last slaves in America were freed. The actual emancipation did not come until Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger rode into Galveston, Texas, and issued General Order No. 3 on June 19, 1865, almost two and a half years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth is celebrated on June 19 in more than 200 cities in the United States. Texas and Oklahoma are the only states that have made Juneteenth a legal holiday. Juneteenth has come to represent for many African-Americans what the Fourth of July represents for all Americans — freedom.
Why is Juneteenth celebrated? It serves as a historical milestone reminding Americans of the triumph of the human spirit over the cruelty of slavery. It symbolizes the end of slavery. It honors those African-American ancestors who survived the inhumane institution of bondage as well as demonstrating pride. At a time like this friends want to share the sorrow that you feel and let you know our caring is very warm and real. Warmest thoughts and deepest sympathy to the McLean family.
Being a follower of Jesus means life is all about him, learning more about him. Sure, sometimes life will be difficult because of choices made to follow him and the consequences that come from others because of those choices. The benefit and joy of being Jesus’ disciple outweighs all other circumstances.
“Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you, He will never let the righteous be shaken.” (Psalm 55:22) Pray for the sick and shut-ins: Rea Helen McLean, Violet Mae, Tommy Monds, Jerome Caudle, Beulah W. Copeland, Loral Ammons, Savannah McNeill, Hattie Holland, Faith Norris, Beatrice Williams, Mildred Massey, the Rev. Frances McLean, Earl Barefoot, Gertrude Cameron, Martha Gray, Nettie J. Price and myself.
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GOOD NEWS ERWIN
MATTIE BAILEY
