On June 19th, the United States commemorated Juneteenth, also known as June Independence Day, Freedom Day, or Emancipation Day, marking the liberation of African American slaves. This day is a federal holiday, and in Flushing, representatives and the Macedonia AME Church, along with the Healing Hearts Ministry, celebrated together at the Queens History Society.
They emphasized that African American history is American history, and through this holiday, one can understand the history of the United States, reminding everyone to eliminate racial prejudice and promote mutual understanding and recognition among different races.
Congresswoman Grace Meng stated that Juneteenth is not just a day for rest or spending time with family and friends; it is a day for education. The history of Black Americans is the history of the United States, essential for every child and every individual, regardless of background or origin, to know the complete history of America. Through this celebration, one can learn more and learn how to do more beneficial things for society. Meng also mentioned that in recent years, the U.S. has provided 3 million new job positions to African Americans, helping 9 million African Americans rise above the poverty line.
State Senator John Liu expressed that the Chinese community should also understand the history of Black Americans and approach issues from a historical perspective.
Assemblyman Ron Kim presented commendations from the State Assembly to Macedonia AME Church and The Healing Hearts Ministry. He stressed the importance of overcoming racism to ensure that everyone has opportunities for success.
Councilwoman Min-ye Haung introduced the numerous African American historical landmarks in Flushing, such as the Olde Towne Cemetery between 46th Avenue and 164th Street in Flushing. On 137th Street stands the former residence of African American inventor Lewis Howard Latimer, now a New York City landmark museum. Latimer invented an improved carbon filament for light bulbs, significantly extending the lifespan of bulbs and making significant contributions to electric lighting applications.
Following the outbreak of the Civil War, President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation took effect on January 1, 1863. On June 19, 1865, approximately 2,000 Union troops arrived at Galveston Bay, Texas, informing over 250,000 enslaved individuals in Texas that they had been granted freedom, making them the last group of slaves to be emancipated in the United States. The Thirteenth Amendment formally ended slavery in the United States. President Biden signed a bill on June 17, 2021, officially designating June 19th as a federal holiday.