Juneteenth celebration, a reminder that freedom isn't 'free'
During the celebration of Juneteenth — we renew the promise of true emancipation, and recall the bloody path America trod to delivering what Maj. General Gordon Granger of Texas termed: “Absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property ...”
While it took a few years for the message of freedom to resonate throughout the nation following the Emancipation Proclamation of 1863, we continue today to celebrate the “joys of liberty, educating the community about our heritage, and by promoting positive cultural interaction” (M. Plummer).
The focus on our rich 400-plus year African-American history is worthy of celebration and pause! It’s important to remember that the African-American experience is an ‘American’ experience! It embodies every facet of our great nation.
JUNETEENTH WEEKEND 2022: Four days of celebrating Black liberation in Greater Lansing
READ MORE: Greater Lansing youth share their thoughts on the holiday, freedom and more
The Juneteenth celebration further reminds us that freedom isn’t “free”! There are real and tangible costs to being called an American. And each of us, no matter what race or creed, must renew our resolve and commitment to continue to pay that cost!
After many months of shelter-in-place due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the sorrow of the many related deaths, civil unrest, the events of January 6, lingering economic concerns and some landmark court decisions, the observance of Juneteenth this year is even more poignant.
The current political climate confirms that we have moved past the era of melodic speeches or the quick turn of a political phrase to bring people together. There is a cry throughout our nation for tangible results evincing true equality.
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Using our time, talents and service in concert together is the only way we will achieve the goal of the “United” States envisioned by our founders and still the hope of today. A society of people committed to the health, safety and prosperity of each other. A collective will centered around equal opportunities and access for everyone.
This Juneteenth my hope is for continued collaboration that will enlighten the path toward our living the meaning of freedom’s purpose for everyone!
Wanda M. Stokes is a judge in Ingham County's 30th Circuit Court.
Juneteenth 2022: Area youth share their thoughts
Visit LSJ.com to read excerpts from the Lansing Juneteenth Celebration annual essay and scholarship competition, with area youth sharing their thoughts on the holiday, freedom and more.
This article originally appeared on Lansing State Journal: Observance of Juneteenth, renewing the promise of true emancipation
