What is Juneteenth?
Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19, marks the day in 1865 when the last enslaved Black Americans in Galveston, Texas, learned they were free—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Though slavery wasn’t formally abolished until later that year with the 13th Amendment, Juneteenth stands as a powerful symbol of freedom and delayed justice. In 2021, it became a federal holiday in recognition of its deep historical significance
Why It Matters to AAHPM
At AAHPM, we believe that health equity starts with understanding and honoring the lived experiences of all communities. Juneteenth aligns with our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)recognizing that meaningful change in healthcare and society begins with awareness and action.
Ways to Honor Juneteenth
- Learn: Read about the history of slavery, emancipation, and the legacy of systemic racism.
- Support: Shop at Black-owned businesses or donate to causes that uplift the Black community.
- Engage: Attend local Juneteenth events or host your own moment of reflection and dialogue.
Let Juneteenth be more than a date—let it be a reminder of our shared responsibility to build a more just and inclusive world, both in healthcare and beyond.
👉 Explore AAHPM’s DEI efforts: aahpm.org/membership/diversity