Galveston Juneteenth celebration reenacts Emancipation Proclamation news

Juneteenth celebration at Galveston's Ashton Villa Mansion commemorates freedom from slavery, honoring history with speeches, songs, and prayers.

As the remnants of Tropical Storm Alberto swayed the palm trees on Galveston Island, a group of over 150 Juneteenth celebrants gathered in the grand ballroom of Ashton Villa Mansion, a historic residence once occupied by Confederate Army officers during the Civil War.

Among the attendees, one man stood out in his Union General uniform. For the past ten years, reenactor Rt. Rev. Stephen Duncan has faithfully worn his rare navy blue cap and wool replica to recite the order issued by Major General Gordon Granger on June 19, 1865, declaring freedom for enslaved Black Texans in Galveston.

Although Texas was not the final state to abolish slavery, it was the last in the Confederacy to receive the news of emancipation. The significance of this day was not lost on the crowd, who sang, prayed, and honored the memory of late Texas Rep. Al Edwards, who played a crucial role in establishing Juneteenth as a state holiday in 1979.

Shirley Foreman, a longtime resident of Galveston, brought her two-month-old grandson, Tru, to the celebration in hopes of instilling in him a sense of history and community. She emphasized the importance of understanding the struggles faced by Black Americans and the significance of freedom.

The event, which featured greetings, speeches, and musical performances, highlighted the changing demographics of Juneteenth celebrations in Galveston. Galveston County Commissioner Stephen Holmes noted the increasing diversity of attendees and stressed the importance of Juneteenth as a national moment of reflection and unity.

Galveston Mayor Chris Brown echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that Juneteenth symbolizes not only freedom from slavery but also the universal quest for freedom and equality. Despite the rainy weather, the event was well-attended, with participants joining in songs, prayers, and moments of remembrance for those who had passed.

Overall, the Juneteenth celebration in Galveston served as a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of freedom and the ongoing struggle for justice and equality. The event, reminiscent of a church service, brought together people from all walks of life to honor the past, celebrate the present, and inspire hope for the future.