(UNIONDALE, N.Y.) – Nassau County Legislators Seth I. Koslow (D – Merrick) and Olena Nicks (D – Uniondale) celebrated Juneteenth at a special event hosted by the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Uniondale.
Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. It specifically refers to the June 19, 1865 issuance of Union General Gordon Granger’s “General Order No. 3,” which brought news of President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation to the people of Texas in these words:
“The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free,” the order reads in part. “This involves an absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves…”
“Across generations, Black Americans have demonstrated a tremendous degree of excellence in the field of aviation – and that made it especially fitting for us to commemorate Juneteenth within the halls of Uniondale’s Cradle of Aviation Museum,” Legislator Koslow said. “I appreciate everyone who worked so hard to present a meaningful event that gave all of us a space to reflect upon history, remember the horrors of slavery in America, and rejoice in those who led the fight to preserve our union and secure freedom for every American.”
“Here in District 2 and across Nassau County, the vibrant celebrations of Juneteenth were brimming with joy as we honored this milestone for freedom in our nation,” Legislator Nicks said. “As we continue through the year, we will carry gratitude in our hearts for everyone who fought and sacrificed in the battle for liberty and equality and recommit ourselves to working toward a more just and perfect union.”
PHOTO CREDITS – Office of the Legislative Minority