Celebrating Juneteenth Amid Resurging Fascism 160 Years Later

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Juneteenth offers a time of celebration and reflection as we consider what it means to be free amid resurgent fascism in America. While the current political moment may feel unprecedented to some people, 160 years after the Black people in Galveston, Texas, learned of emancipation, Black Americans are still fighting for freedom, liberation, and self-determination. This year’s Juneteenth celebrations take place against the backdrop of a federal government covered in fascism and hostile toward these core tenets of a free society. 

Combined with the outright refusal to respect the traditions, values, and contributions of Black Americans throughout this nation’s history. 

Despite the persisting attacks on multiple fronts, Black organizers and communities see opportunity in celebrating this moment as we continue to push onward. Brianna Brown, co-director of the Texas Organizing Project (TOP), noted that Juneteenth serves as a poignant reminder of Black resistance and resilience. 

“Celebrating freedom 160 years after General Order No. 3 signifies our commitment to a legacy of resistance and vision,” Brown said. “It reminds us that liberation didn’t arrive solely because Union soldiers came to Galveston. It came because enslaved Black people never stopped dreaming, resisting, and moving toward freedom.”

Brown said that Juneteenth offers an opportunity for Black Americans to write a new chapter, even as we combat re-emerging forms of white supremacy, such as book bans, state violence, voter suppression, and anti-Black curriculum, to name a few. 

Source: Celebrating Juneteenth Amid Resurging Fascism 160 Years Later