We want to welcome Janae Cofield, a Cabbage Patch College Scholar, as a new voice at The Patch! Janae will be sharing her views this summer on a variety of topics. If you have a question for Janae, please email our communication department at jhendrix@cabbagepatch.org.
Today, Janae explains the history and significance of Juneteenth.
Juneteenth: for some it is a day of remembrance and celebration involving food, music, and family traditions. However, many people are unaware of the meaning behind the holiday and one of the greatest moments in U.S. history.
June 19, 1865 is the day when slavery ended in the United States, due to the Emancipation Proclamation. Even though the proclamation was signed two and a half years earlier, news back then traveled fairly slowly, especially with some slave owners preventing the news from spreading. On this day in Texas, General Gordon Granger announced all slaves were free under the Emancipation Proclamation. Later the same year, the 13th Amendment was placed, which officially abolished slavery in the United States.
This year marks the 155th year of freedom for African-Americans in the United States.
Here are 4 ways to celebrate Juneteenth with family and friends.
- Have a cookout. – It is always fun to be surrounded by those you love. This is a moment of celebration and a time for you and your family to talk, reminisce and learn from one another about the society’s advancements over the years and some solutions for the future.
- Watch informative and educational documentaries and movies. – It’s always a great time to learn new things. This generation has access to different streaming and video services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and Youtube. Use some of the time you have to learn about African American history and culture.
- Buy and find out about Black owned businesses. – There are many businesses out there that make great quality items, food, and clothing. Supporting Black owned business by shopping from them, or even giving them free advertisement by sharing on social media. I would also recommend buying from Black owned businesses locally to help your own community.
- Create your own traditions. – There has never really been official traditions for Juneteenth like other holidays. This is a time for you to create your own traditions and invite others to also participate and learn the meaning of Juneteenth. This is also an opportunity to allow yourself to get creative with your friends and family.
Janae Cofield,
Senior | Public Relations Major
Black Studies & Communication Studies Minors
Poetic Justice | Founder
Nu Upsilon Black Women’s Honorary | Vice President
University Housing | Kentucky Hall R.O.C.K.S Resident Assistant
University Housing | Desk and Mail Assistant