On Sunday, June 19, 2022, Americans across the country celebrate and commemorate one of the most important dates for the Black community in our nation’s history, Juneteenth.
On June 19, 1865, Major General Gordon Granger and his federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas to announce all enslaved people were now freed, two months after the Civil War ended and an astonishing two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed.
Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day and Emancipation Day, has been celebrated widely since the late 1800s and has historically been marked with parades, festivals, picnics, artwork displays, family gatherings and more.
Juneteenth, observed as a federal holiday as of 2021, has taken on a renewed meaning over the past few years as American citizens of all backgrounds have organized and marched in support of racial equality and justice for Black Americans. This holiday serves as moment for all citizens to educate ourselves on the history of slavery and the Black American experience in this country, celebrate the Black community and its immeasurable contributions to our society, and continue the fight for true equality for all of us. We still have work to do.
White Cap celebrates the unique perspectives each associate offers. We use these differences in race, ethnicity, color, sexual orientation and gender identity as an opportunity to listen, learn and Build Trust as we grow stronger as One Team.
We are Unwavering in our commitment to creating a diverse, inclusive work environment through various programs such as unconscious bias training, inclusivity training, the associate-led Culture & Values Council, and more.
We encourage our associates, customers, and suppliers to take this opportunity to dive into the resources below to learn more about Juneteenth and its deeply rooted place in American history. Have a safe and joyous Juneteenth!
Educational Resources
- The History of Juneteenth – National Museum of African American History & Culture
- Celebrating Juneteenth – National Museum of African American History & Culture
- Why Juneteenth is Important for America – The Root
- 1619 Podcast – The New York Times
- Historian Dr. Shennette Garrett-Scott lectures on the history of Juneteenth
- Juneteenth Special Series - NPR
