Yavapai College will be closed for observance of the Juneteenth Holiday.
For those who are not familiar with Juneteenth, it is the national commemoration of the ending of slavery in the U.S. Originating in Galveston, Texas, in 1865, it marks the date, June 19th, Union soldiers landed and shared news that enslaved people were now free.
It is important to note that this is more than two years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation, which went into effect on January 1, 1863. With the surrender of General Lee in April 1865 and enough soldiers to enforce the law, the resistance ended.
The Juneteenth website elaborates: “It is a time for reflection and rejoicing. It is a time for assessment, self-improvement and for planning the future. Its growing popularity signifies a level of maturity and dignity in America long overdue. In cities across the country, people of all races, nationalities and religions are joining hands to truthfully acknowledge a period in our history that shaped and continues to influence our society today.”
- Discuss with family, friends, students, and coworkers the history of Juneteenth, what it means, and what we can all do to help end racism and discrimination
- Consider the Yavapai College Equity Value and how your job impacts equity across the college for our students, employees, and community.