Statement: U.S. Conference of Mayors Celebrates Juneteenth

Washington, D.C. -The United States Conference of Mayors (USCM) joins communities across the nation in celebrating Juneteenth, the day in 1865 that enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas were finally informed of their freedom and the Emancipation Proclamation was effectively enforced in the United States. As the nation observes Juneteenth, below is a statement from USCM President and San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria:

"Juneteenth is both a celebration and a call to remembrance. This Juneteenth, we honor the resilience, leadership, and achievements of generations of Black Americans whose sacrifices and perseverance have helped shape our country. Their stories are inseparable from the American story and remind us that our nation's strength is found in the diversity of our people and in our shared commitment to equality.

"The United States Conference of Mayors remains committed to supporting policies and partnerships that strengthen communities, expand opportunity, and advance the ideals of freedom and equality that Juneteenth represents. On this day of reflection and celebration, we encourage all Americans to learn from our history, honor those who came before us, and recommit ourselves to building a more just country."