Senator Markey is an author of Juneteenth National Independence Act signed into law in June 2021
Boston (June 18, 2025) - Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Senate author of the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act of 2021, released the following statement today in anticipation of Juneteenth and in celebration of the fourth anniversary of Juneteenth’s commemoration as a federal holiday.
“This Juneteenth, families, neighbors, and communities will come together to celebrate, remember, and reflect on the day when word of emancipation finally reached enslaved people in the Deep South in 1865. But Juneteenth isn’t only about what happened 160 years ago—it’s about everything that happened after, and what we are still fighting for today: civil rights, equity, and inclusion. On Juneteenth, we are reminded that freedom didn’t come all at once, and it still must be claimed, defended, and expanded.
“With Trump and Republicans trying to eradicate diversity programming and cut funding to institutions and schools for recognizing our diverse history, we must stand together to say that people and history will not be erased. We must make sure our systems—our schools, our courts, our hospitals—treat Black Americans with dignity and fairness. This President has no regard or respect for the Constitution, the rule of law, or our most sacred values as a nation. He is testing our democracy day in and day out. And in the face of this test, we must recommit ourselves to the fight for justice, liberty, and freedom for all.
“This movement for faith and freedom will not be stopped. Juneteenth is about progress and truth and never giving up on the idea that our country can be better. I am proud to commemorate Juneteenth, and I will continue to fight for liberty and justice for every community.”
Last Friday, Senator Markey met with “Boston Ben” Haith, a long-time organizer, activist, and designer of the Juneteenth flag, to discuss the enduring legacy of Juneteenth. Senator Markey and Mr. Haith met at Roxbury State Heritage Park, the same park where the official Juneteenth flag raising occurred in June of 2000. For a video of their discussion, click here.
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