Juneteenth vs. Independence Day
Aug 28, 2024
Should Juneteenth replace July 4th as America’s Independence Day?
Yes, it’s time we embrace our true history.
No, that would destroy our identity.
In American history, Juneteenth and Independence Day stand as significant markers. Each holiday commemorates a distinct aspect of freedom, reflecting the nation’s journey from its revolutionary origins to its ongoing pursuit of equality. Understanding these holidays provides insight into the values that have shaped and continue to shape the United States.
Historical Context of Juneteenth and Independence Day
Juneteenth marks June 19, 1865, when Union Major General Gordon Granger issued an order proclaiming freedom for enslaved people in Texas. Despite President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, many in Confederate states remained enslaved until Union troops enforced the order. The significance of Juneteenth lies in its celebration of freedom and the end of slavery, a crucial step in America’s journey towards equality.
Independence Day, celebrated on July 4, commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. This document marked the birth of the United States as a sovereign nation, declaring independence from British rule. It is a symbol of national pride, embodying the principles of liberty and justice.
While both holidays celebrate freedom, they do so from different perspectives:
https://www.usconstitution.net/juneteenth-vs-independence-day/?utm_content=ecap&utm_medium=msft&utm_source=msft_native&utm_campaign=msft-485650872#google_vignette
