Juneteenth: Reflecting on freedom, progress and 250 years of the American Story

Dear Rowan Community,

Each year on June 19, people throughout the country recognize Juneteenth, marking the day in 1865 when news of the Emancipation Proclamation finally reached enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas—more than two years after it was issued. This historic moment became a turning point in our nation’s story, and Juneteenth, a federal holiday, continues to serve as a time to reflect on the significance of freedom and the progress made over generations.

As our nation commemorates its 250th anniversary, Juneteenth carries even deeper meaning. It reminds us that the American story is one of continual striving—toward justice, toward equality, and toward a more perfect union. It calls us to honor the resilience of those who fought for freedom and to reaffirm our shared responsibility to advance that work today.

Let us take this time to reflect on the significance of the day, acknowledge how far we’ve come, and look ahead with a renewed commitment to progress.

Sincerely,

Ali A. Houshmand
President