Blumenthal Statement Celebrating Juneteenth

[HARTFORD, CT] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) released the following statement in celebration of Juneteenth, the federal holiday commemorating the emancipation of all slaves in the United States.

“Juneteenth is a reminder of our nation’s ongoing fight for freedom, justice, and equity. This holiday recognizes our commitment to uplifting Black history and heritage. Juneteenth is a time for not only celebration, but for somber reflection on the experiences of generations of Black Americans. Today, we honor the trailblazers and heroes who never gave up the fight to ensure our country lives up to its ideals.”

Juneteenth was declared a federal holiday by President Biden last year and a state holiday by Governor Ned Lamont last month. Juneteenth marks the day two and a half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation when federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas to ensure all formerly enslaved people were freed. Juneteenth is the longest running holiday celebrating the end of slavery in the United States.  

-30-