Happy Juneteenth!
160 years ago, the last of the enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, learned they had been freed. Since then, Juneteenth has stood as a celebration of liberation, resistance, and the long struggle for Black freedom in America.
Juneteenth is an opportunity to celebrate our country resisting institutionalized labor exploitation, as well as enshrining freedom for all regardless of race. Slavery used race to mark Black workers as vulnerable and exploitable, but in doing so, it devalued all workers. The abolition of slavery had ripple effects across the country, laying the groundwork for improved labor rights and shifting the conversation about fair work and dignity on the job.
This year’s Juneteenth carries particular weight, as the first under President Donald Trump’s second administration – an administration that, since taking office, has undermined the very origins of this holiday. Hard won rights, freedoms, and protections are being stripped away. From undermining diversity, equity, and inclusion to attacking public education, unions, and collective bargaining rights, this administration has launched an all-out attack to roll back progress. It feels as though history is rearing back at us again.
But the legacy of Juneteenth reminds us of the importance of never giving up hope in uncertain times and the strength of our collective action. It reminds us that even when faced with adversity, greed, and discrimination, freedom is always worth fighting for. That is something every member of AFT Maryland should take pride in celebrating, no matter our background. It is my hope that each of us enjoy the Juneteenth holiday and continue to do our part to, indeed, make our country a more perfect union.
Kenya Campbell, President
AFT Maryland
