Today is Juneteenth

This week our nation took a step forward towards justice and equity and I am honored to see it happen in my lifetime. While a positive step forward, I remain concerned about how long it took to bring the bright shining light of justice to Juneteenth.

President Joe Biden signs the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, in the East Room of the White House, Thursday, June 17, 2021, in Washington. From left, Rep. Barbara Lee, D-Calif, Rep. Danny Davis, D-Ill., Opal Lee, Sen. Tina Smith, D-Minn., obscured, Vice President Kamala Harris, House Majority Whip James Clyburn of S.C., Sen. Raphael Warnock, D-Ga., Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, Rep. Joyce Beatty, D-Ohio, Sen. Ed Markey, D-Mass., and Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, D-Texas. AP Photo/Evan Vucci

Across the nation, we are witnessing targeted agendas working to erase the history, pain, suffering, and contributions of African-Americans, both free and enslaved.

Today is Juneteenth and I’m honored to celebrate it with my community but the work continues. The work to honor our families, communities, and nations ripped apart by imperialism, colonialism, chattel slavery, and Jim Crow.

The work continues to restore equity in our public education system, the justice system, and our economic policies.

The work continues as we seek to protect and expand access to the ballot box and ensure transparency and accountability in all forms of government, including elected and appointed.

Though we tire, I remain steadfast in my mission as your public advocate to do my best to address the sins of our nation, the misdeeds of it’s leaders, and to build on the hope, voice, and power of the people.

Today is Juneteenth but every single day is a good day to embrace the hard truths, do better for our families and neighbors, and improve the outcomes of our communities at large.

Read More About Juneteenth

Your Public Advocate,

Sen. Mujtaba A. Mohammed