Pelosi Statement on the 150th Juneteenth Celebration

June 19, 2015

Washington, D.C. – House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi issued this statement today in recognition of the 150th Celebration of Juneteenth, which marks June 19, 1865 when federal officials arrived in Galveston, Texas to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation:

"Today, we celebrate the historic turning point in our nation's history, when all African Americans born into slavery breathed free.

"Juneteenth reminds us of the power we have to meet the challenges that communities of color and so many others continue to face in the pursuit of justice and equality. As we celebrate the jubilee, let us resolve to end the indignity and violence of bigotry, discrimination, and hatred in all its forms.

"Out of the bleakness of slavery, African Americans have made invaluable contributions to our great democracy, shaping this nation's cultural, scientific and economic prosperity for generations. On this historic anniversary, let us remember that in our beloved country, the beauty is in the mix – and that we must continue to work together to honor that truth."