Juneteenth: Unveiling the Hidden Legacy of Black History and the Unparalleled Impact of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Juneteenth: Unveiling the Hidden Legacy of Black History and the Unparalleled Impact of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Article By: Julien Serrano-O’Neil, Associate Editor to the Sphinx-Elect, Spring 2022 Initiate

Juneteenth, a significant day in American history, serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of celebrating, expanding, empowering, and encouraging Black history. Among the various organizations dedicated to this cause, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc stands as a shining example. This renowned fraternity has played a crucial role in uplifting Black communities, fostering leadership, and advancing civil rights.

Juneteenth not only marks the emancipation of African Americans from slavery but also symbolizes the ongoing struggle for equality and justice Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc , founded in 1906, has been at the forefront of this battle, tirelessly working to empower Black individuals and strengthen their representation in all spheres of society

Through its commitment to education, service, and advocacy, Alpha Phi Alpha has contributed significantly to expanding Black history. The fraternity has cultivated leaders who have left indelible marks on history, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Thurgood Marshall, and many others Their legacy serves as a testament to the power of knowledge, perseverance, and community. In celebrating Juneteenth, we must acknowledge the pivotal role Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc

has played and continues to play in preserving and advancing Black history The fraternity's commitment to scholarship, brotherhood, and service aligns perfectly with the goals of Juneteenth – to honor the struggles and achievements of Black individuals and to inspire future generations to create a more just and equitable society

Moreover, Alpha Phi Alpha's dedication to mentorship and community engagement strengthens the fabric of Black history. Through various programs and initiatives, the fraternity empowers young Black leaders, providing them with the tools and support needed to excel academically, socially, and professionally By investing in the next generation, Alpha Phi Alpha ensures that Black history remains alive and thriving

As we celebrate Juneteenth and strive to expand, empower, and encourage Black history, let us recognize the profound impact of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. This esteemed organization exemplifies the spirit of resilience, unity, and progress that defines the struggle for racial equality Together, we can honor the legacy of Juneteenth and Alpha Phi Alpha by actively promoting inclusivity, dismantling systemic barriers, and amplifying the diverse voices and experiences within the Black community.

Juneteenth: Facts

• Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, is an annual holiday celebrated on June 19th in the United States

• The holiday commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in Texas on June 19, 1865, following the end of the Civil War

• Although President Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation had been issued on January 1, 1863, it took over two years for the news to reach Texas due to the lack of Union presence in the state during the Civil War

• Union Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865, and announced General Order No 3, officially proclaiming the end of slavery in Texas.

• Juneteenth's name is a combination of "June" and "nineteenth ”

• The holiday is particularly significant in African American communities, as it represents the final liberation of enslaved people in the last Confederate state.

• Celebrations of Juneteenth often include parades, cookouts, family gatherings, music, dancing, and readings of the Emancipation Proclamation

• Juneteenth celebrations have been a tradition since the late 19th century, primarily in Texas, and have since spread across the United States

• On June 17, 2021, Juneteenth became a federal holiday in the United States when President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law

• The federal recognition of Juneteenth marks it as the first new federal holiday since Martin Luther King Jr. Day was established in 1983