(WESTBURY, NEW CASSEL and HEMPSTEAD, N.Y.) – In observance of Juneteenth in America, Nassau County Legislator Viviana L. Russell (D – Westbury) joined community members across District 2. The events included the Long Island Tuskegee Alumni Association and NAUW Long Island Branch’s gathering at the Westbury Memorial Library, the Town of North Hempstead’s Juneteenth flag raising ceremony at Martin “Bunky” Reid Park in New Cassel, which was hosted in partnership the Westbury/New Cassel NAACP and North Hempstead Town Councilman Robert Troiano, Jr., Hempstead Village’s celebration at Kennedy Memorial Park and Empact LI/Black Long Island’s 10th Anniversary Gala.
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 Abraham 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…”
“Juneteenth is a wonderful opportunity to honor and reflect on the rich culture, history, and contributions of the Black community through music, education, and fellowship,” Legislator Russell said. “Events like these bring our communities together, celebrate our shared history, and ensure that the legacy and significance of Juneteenth continues to be recognized and appreciated by future generations. I am thankful to all of the organizations that sponsored and hosted these important community gatherings.”
PHOTO CREDITS – Office of Legislator Viviana L. Russell