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Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16) issued the following statement in observance of Juneteenth, which marks June 19, 1865, when federal officials arrived in Galveston, Texas to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation, two and a half years after it became an official law:

“Today we observe a day dedicated to the celebration of freedom for African Americans born and sold into slavery. Sadly, this year, Juneteenth comes at a tragic turning point for our nation that reminds us of the long journey still ahead to build a more just and equal union. 

“As Americans protest in the streets to demand an end to racial injustice and police brutality and grieve the loss of Black lives including George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Michael Brown, and so many others, we continue to remember the horrors of slavery and segregation, pay tribute to the enslaved men, women, and children who built our country, and dedicate ourselves to the fight for justice and equality.”

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