On this Juneteenth, we remember the tragic history of our nation’s original sin, the institution of slavery, the scars of which remain with us to this day. Throughout our history, the sins of slavery have been embodied by the social and economic hardships faced by generations of African-Americans, scars that are still visible to this day.

Today, as we celebrate Freedom Day, I want to remind my friends and neighbors across Genesee County that this day is not simply a way to commemorate the end of slavery. Juneteenth also represents the ongoing struggle for equality in our state and nation. While we rightly acknowledge the strength and perseverance of those who suffered under oppression throughout our history, we must also lean on our strength and perseverance as a community to root out injustice wherever we find it.

In Genesee County, we have proudly celebrated Juneteenth for over 50 years, thanks largely to the dedicated efforts of Dr. E. Hill De Loney, whose vision brought our community together in this important observance. All county departments are closed today in recognition of our shared responsibility to fight for equality for all our friends and neighbors here and across our great country.

As a county, we are proud to hold Juneteenth in the esteem that it deserves. 

On behalf of the Board of Commissioners, which last month recognized Juneteenth by resolution, I encourage you to remember the words of Coretta Scott King who said this about the struggle for freedom:

“It is a never ending process … you earn it and win it in every generation.”

Happy Freedom Day, Genesee County!