Honoring Juneteenth: A Call to Remember, Reflect, and Act

On June 19, 1865—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation—enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, finally learned of their freedom. Juneteenth commemorates this overdue declaration of freedom. It serves as a powerful reminder that justice delayed is justice denied—and that freedom, to be meaningful, must be actively protected and pursued.

Today, Juneteenth represents more than just the end of slavery; it invites us to confront the legacy of systemic racism and to recommit to creating a society where freedom, opportunity, and belonging are available to everyone without delay or denial.

At the Carlson Family Foundation, our vision is to uplift youth through leadership at the intersection of love and insight. We recognize that systemic racism continues to be one of the most significant barriers to achieving that vision.

As we reflect on the significance of Juneteenth, we also recognize the urgency of this moment: when histories are being silenced, when the well-being and advancement of marginalized communities are under attack, and when efforts to roll back hard-fought civil rights are increasingly being introduced. 

 We remain committed to becoming an anti-racist organization. This means amplifying the voices of Black and Brown communities, holding ourselves accountable, and sharing our power as we walk alongside our partners and communities on this multigenerational journey toward justice.

Juneteenth reminds us that freedom is not a fixed point in history—it is a continuous struggle that requires courage, persistence, and collective action. We honor that struggle and all who continue to fight for a future where every young person can thrive.

To learn more about the history and significance of Juneteenth, visit the National Museum of African American History & Culture.