Although Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation more than two years earlier, it wasn’t until this day in 1865 that Union General Gordon Granger was able to get to Galveston, Texas to let those remaining enslaved Americans know the Civil War was over and all slaves were free. The Republican Party will always be proudly connected to Juneteenth because of President Lincoln’s leadership, and we enthusiastically welcome its adoption as our newest national holiday after President Trump called for it last year.
Juneteenth Statement from RNC Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel:
“Although Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation more than two years earlier, it wasn’t until this day in 1865 that Union General Gordon Granger was able to get to Galveston, Texas to let those remaining enslaved Americans know the Civil War was over and all slaves were free. The Republican Party will always be proudly connected to Juneteenth because of President Lincoln’s leadership, and we enthusiastically welcome its adoption as our newest national holiday after President Trump called for it last year. Mindful of the special importance Juneteenth has for Black Americans, it should also be a source of pride for Republicans and every American. The RNC will continue our efforts to expand engagement with the Black community because our party remains the party of freedom and opportunity. On Juneteenth we vow to never forget the evils of slavery while we continue the work of perfecting our Union. Our new federal holiday is a reminder of what we can achieve when we appeal to our nation’s highest ideals and come together as Americans.”
Juneteenth Video from Paris Dennard, RNC National Spokesperson and Director of Black Media Affairs:
WATCH:
Bottom Line: Emancipation and Juneteenth will always be a part of our heritage as a Republican Party. This holiday is an opportunity for all Americans to learn, unite, and celebrate as we continue to work to create a more perfect union, and the RNC proudly joins in that celebration.