Garland, TX – Over the weekend, the community came together to celebrate Juneteenth, a day that marks the end of slavery in the United States. Both Garland and Rowlett hosted vibrant events that honored the historical significance of the day and underscored the critical importance of equality and justice for all.
In Garland, the downtown square transformed into a lively hub of activity, featuring games, music, food, and fun for all ages. Meanwhile, the City of Rowlett hosted a more intimate celebration at the Rowlett Community Centre. Attendees enjoyed an array of poetry and musical performances that honored the rich history of Juneteenth. Among the speakers was Texas Representative Rhetta Andrews Bowers, who shared her personal experiences celebrating Juneteenth with her family and the importance of recognizing the history of the day.
Bowers expressed her pride in Rowlett’s recognition of the important date, stating, “Two years overdue, yet their freedom finally arrived. In that moment, they chose joy. They prayed with gratitude, danced with abandon, and believed in a brighter future. Juneteenth stands as a testament to their unyielding faith and our collective pursuit of a more just tomorrow. We honor their legacy, we celebrate our triumphs, and we press onward, driven by our determination to create a world where freedom and equality reign supreme.”
In Garland, the significance of Juneteenth was echoed during the City Council meeting on Tuesday. Councilmember Lucht delivered a poignant invocation, saying, “On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, to deliver a message that was two and a half years late: slavery had ended. President Lincoln had issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, declaring… that all persons held as slaves within any State… shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free.”
Lucht emphasized the importance of making freedom real, stating, “Freedom is not just declared; it has to be made real. And even when it is, it can be fragile… Juneteenth is about honoring that struggle. It’s about recognizing that freedom delayed is freedom denied, and that justice must be pursued actively, not passively.”
The Rowlett City Council meeting earlier this week honored the life of Jane Endsley, a significant figure in the city’s history, by presenting a proclamation in her memory. A freed slave, Endsley moved to Rowlett and became a prominent community leader, overcoming the odds to uplift others through her kindness and service.
As the community continues to celebrate Juneteenth, the events serve as a powerful reminder of the timeline of events and the importance of acknowledging the delayed freedom experienced by many. These celebrations are sure to inspire future generations to advocate for justice and inclusivity.
