Reflections on Juneteenth – and looking ahead

Juneteenth is now a federal holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States. Juneteenth is a celebration of freedom for Black Americans across this nation – but it is meaningless if we abandon our fight for equality and justice for all.

It has been nearly 156 years since the end of slavery in the United States, yet our nation continues to struggle with fundamental rights and opportunities for Black Americans. We as Democrats still regret the shameful legacies of slavery, Jim Crow, housing segregation, voter suppression, the wealth gap, life expectancy, and institutional racism.

The calendar shows that the perfect storm of making a difference in our communities is upon us.

As voters, we have stood up and demanded action from our leaders. We demanded change in our systemic racism in housing, public education, health care, and more. Justice means meaningful action and long-lasting reforms for communities of color and systemic changes to address the legacy of our nation’s original sin. We must demand action right now.

Today, we must recognize the unique inequities that Black Americans face in our nation and act together. The road ahead will not be easy, but I know a better representation is possible, and we must continue to work towards meaningful changes at all levels.

The 45th has endorsed candidates for the August election, with ballots being mailed July 14th.

Now that we have all worked diligently to put these candidates on the ballot, we now need YOU for a few hours (click here to find campaign volunteer opportunities).

We can get the work done so our endorsed candidates can be on the November general election ballot.

We need a few hours of your time now this July to make a difference in our long-term vision. Summer brings opportunities, especially this year, for voters to be part of our team that wants to make a difference.

In Solidarity,

Linda Jenkins (she/her)

Chair, 45th District Democrats