The Fourth of July, also known as Independence Day, is what many Americans consider to be a day to celebrate their freedom. It commemorates July 4th, 1776, when the original colonies declared their independence. Yet, many Americans were not free at that time. Slavery continued to exist in the United States for another 87 years. As a result, many Black Americans celebrate their freedom on Juneteenth. 

Juneteenth (the combination of "June" and "nineteenth") recognizes the day that the Union’s Major General Gordon Granger led soldiers to Galveston, Texas, which at the time, was the furthest point in the South. They delivered a very important message that slaves in that area did not know: the war was over, the Union had won, and it was time to enforce the end of slavery. Granger read out General Order No. 3, which confirmed that all slaves were free, and slavery would no longer be tolerated. If former slaves chose to remain on the plantations, they would be treated as hired workers. The year was 1865.

The announcement came two months after the conclusion of the Civil War, and over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation took effect. Even after that day, many enslaved Black people still were not free. The historic event represented not only the end of slavery but also the beginning of a long journey toward true freedom and equality. 

Since that time, Juneteenth has become a celebration of diversity and unity. It is an opportunity for people of all backgrounds to come together and honor African Americans' rich heritage and contributions. By embracing the day, we acknowledge that freedom is a universal right that should be cherished by all. It is a time to reflect on the progress that has been made and the work that still lies ahead in achieving true equality and justice for all. The pursuit of freedom is a journey that requires courage, unity, and an unwavering belief in a brighter future.

Acknowledgment of the importance of Juneteenth has taken a significant amount of time. In 2019, Pennsylvania recognized June 19th as “National Freedom Day” and designated it as an annual holiday. Congress finally recognized the day’s importance in 2021, 156 years after Granger’s announcement in Galveston. 

While Juneteenth is a time to celebrate the past, it is also a time to envision and work toward a future of equality. The struggle for freedom and justice is ongoing and Juneteenth serves as a reminder that the fight must continue. As we commemorate this day, let us recommit ourselves to dismantling systemic racism, advocating for equal opportunities, and creating a society where everyone can thrive regardless of their race, ethnicity, or background. Juneteenth is a call to action, urging us to build bridges of understanding, foster empathy, and stand up against injustice in all its forms. Let us use this day as a catalyst for positive change, striving for a future where freedom, equality, and justice prevail. Together we can shape a world that lives up to the promise of Juneteenth and paves the way for a brighter tomorrow for all. 

As presidents of the York County Bar Association and the York County Bar Foundation, we encourage you to participate in one or more of this holiday’s many celebrations listed below.

“My humanity is bound up in yours, for we can only be human together.” —Desmond Tutu

Lynnore K. Seaton, President York County Bar Association

Christy H. Fawcett, President York County Bar Foundation

York County Bar Adopts Juneteenth Resolution

Juneteenth is a Federal and State holiday and adopted by Pennsylvania Supreme Court (PASC Juneteenth Order), but has not yet been adopted in York County. As recommended by the JEDI Committee, the YCBA and YCBF boards have adopted a Resolution acknowledging the meaning of and advocating for the recognition of Juneteenth as a holiday in York County. The Resolution will be shared with the York County Courts, Commissioners, and community. 

Local Juneteenth events

Members and families are encouraged to participate in local Juneteenth events:

• Hanover Jubilee - June 17, 2023, 12:00pm - 5:00pm, Wirt Park, Hanover
• We Are Family - June 18, 2023, 12:00pm - 7:00pm, Penn Park
• 2nd Annual Cultural Mixer - June 18, 2023, 5:00pm - 8:00pm, Crispus Attucks Community Center
• Juneteenth Block Party - June 19, 2023, 6:00pm - 8:00pm, Union Lutheran Church, 408 W. Market Street

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