The name Juneteenth itself tells the story: it combines “June” with “nineteenth” and is celebrated every year on June 19th. Juneteenth commemorates the ultimate liberation of enslaved individuals in Galveston, Texas, in 1865, upon receiving news that the Civil War had officially ended.
Today, it is celebrated with fervor and reminds us of the resilience and endurance of Black Americans nationwide, as well as ongoing endeavors for a more equitable America. Just three years ago, in 2021, June 19th also became a federal holiday, leading many Americans to learn more about the history of enslaved people.
This year, as you enjoy the day, also take the time to read some of the Famous Quote for Juneteenth
Understanding Juneteenth
Juneteenth marks the day in 1865 when enslaved people in Texas learned of their freedom, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. This historic event symbolizes the end of slavery and the ongoing struggle for racial equality in America.
President Biden signed a law in 2021 that made Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19th, a federal holiday. Interest in this day grew in the summer of 2020 following nationwide protests over the killings of Black Americans like George Floyd and Breonna Taylor by police.
Recommended Reading: Parenting hacks for a stress- free morning routine for kids
Inspirational Quotes about Freedom
1. Freedom is never given; it is won: A. Philip Randolph
2. Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery; none but ourselves can free our minds: Bob Marley
3. Say it loud. I’m Black and I’m proud!: James Brown | Singer & Produce
4. I got to fight on till I leave here, and I hope I leave some footprints: Mattie Jones
Impactful Juneteenth Quotes
1. Juneteenth isn’t about victory or settling. It’s about progress—a reminder that change is possible despite our painful history and that there’s still much to be done: Barack Obama
2. Never lose hope. We’re all in this together, as one people, one family, in the American house: John Lewis
3. Preserve your history. During slavery, many couldn’t read or keep anything. Sharing your story matters—it says, ‘I existed, I mattered.: Maya Angelou
4. Juneteenth is just one step in the journey for freedom. It’s a chance to honor the contributions of enslaved Black Americans to human freedom: Jamelle Bouie
Quotes on Resilience and Hope
1. The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice: Martin Luther King Jr.
2. In the face of impossible odds, people who love this country can change it: Barack Obama
3. Preserve your history. During slavery, many couldn’t read or keep anything. Sharing your story matters—it says, ‘I existed, I mattered: Maya Angelou
Recommended Reading: 50 SPECIAL EDUCATION QUOTES FOR KIDS WITH UNIQUE ABILITIES
Juneteenth Freedom Quotes
1. It’s an opportunity to both look back but to look ahead to make sure that notion of freedom and the fragility of it is always protected and celebrated: Lonnie Bunch
2. Even though the story has never been tidy, and Black folks have had to march and fight for every inch of our freedom, our story is nonetheless one of progress: Michelle Obama
3. We have simply got to make people aware that none of us are free until we’re all free, and we aren’t free yet: Opal Lee
4. Throughout history, Juneteenth has been known by many names: Jubilee Day, Freedom Day, Liberation Day, Emancipation Day and, today, a national holiday: Kamala Harris
5. Nobody’s free until everybody’s free: Fannie Lou Hamer | Social Activist
Recommended Reading: Top 10 Veterans Day Activities for Middle School Students
Juneteenth Freedom Quotes
1. We may have all come on different ships, but we’re in the same boat now: Martin Luther King Jr.
2. Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much: Helen Keller
3. In unity, there is strength: Booker T. Washington
4. Solidarity is the only way forward: Angela Davis
5. We may have different backgrounds, but we’re all in this together: Michelle Obama
6. Unity is strength… when there is teamwork and collaboration, wonderful things can be achieved: Mattie Stepanek
Conclusion
Inspirational quotes have the power to uplift, motivate, and inspire us to action. As we celebrate Juneteenth, let us draw strength from these words and continue the fight for freedom, equality, and justice. Together, we can honor the legacy of Juneteenth and create a better future for generations to come.
Moonpreneur is on a mission to disrupt traditional education and future-proof the next generation with holistic learning solutions. Its Innovator Program is building tomorrow’s workforce by training students in AI/ML, Robotics, Coding, IoT, and Apps, enabling entrepreneurship through experiential learning.
