Sunday, June 21, 2009

Juneteenth

What is Juneteenth?

Hey folks,

What is it, and what do I think about it? Well, according to Juneteenth.com

From its Galveston, Texas origin in 1865, the observance of June 19th as the African American Emancipation Day has spread across the United States and beyond.

Today Juneteenth commemorates African American freedom and emphasizes education and achievement. It is a day, a week, and in some areas a month marked with celebrations, guest speakers, picnics and family gatherings. It is a time for reflection and rejoicing. It is a time for assessment, self-improvement and for planning the future. Its growing popularity signifies a level of maturity and dignity in America long over due. In cities across the country, people of all races, nationalities and religions are joining hands to truthfully acknowledge a period in our history that shaped and continues to influence our society today. Sensitized to the conditions and experiences of others, only then can we make significant and lasting improvements in our society.

So what do I think? I think it's GREAT. I mean that. I have no problem at all with it. We celebrate July 4th as our Independence Day in America. When we shook off the chains of bondage from the Church of England and the oppressive taxation of a Monarchy. So the Blacks have this Independence Day. Great.

As long as they do it for the right reasons. Now I know some want the new recognition of Congress to be a step toward reparations, but I do not see that as what this is about. Congresses move to recognize the day is a nice jester to the African American Community. Nancy Pelosi released this following statement.

"On June 19, 1865, the last slaves of African descent were freed when Union Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas -- shortly after the end of the Civil War -- to enforce President Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation, an executive order issued two year prior on January 1, 1863.

"Since that day more than two centuries ago, many African Americans around our nation recognize June 19th as an historic turning point in our nation's history. Over the last few decades, this celebration of freedom has spread to South America, Europe, Asia and Africa.

"Today, as we reflect on the historic steps our country has taken to promote equality, let us recommit ourselves to ending modern-day slavery, discrimination, and exploitation so that all citizens of the world can live equally -- with respect and dignity."


Now see, this is where I become cautious. What exactly does she mean by "let us recommit ourselves to ending modern-day slavery, discrimination, and exploitation so that all citizens of the world can live equally -- with respect and dignity?"

Modern day slavery? Not here, unless you count the oppressive taxation and regulations that this new Administration seems hell bend on levying against the citizens. Discrimination? Yes there are some small pockets across the country where this is still relevant. Then again, you have ACTIVE Discrimination by the Left against Christians, Jews, and White folks. Exploitation? Again.

But she said, "all citizens of the world" NO! Seriously. We are NOT citizens of the world. We are Americans. Should we continue to strive toward total equality in OUR country? Of course. Are we the Policemen of the World? No. Whatever happened to Obama saying he does not want to impose our will on other countries? Let's start with our own first.

Some ways to speed up the process? Do away with Affirmative Action. Put those that WANT to divide rather than unite, out or business. Let's take a lesson from MLK Jr. Let's judge people on the content of their character and NOT the color of their skin.

But as for the day? June 19? ANYTHING positive coming out of it is a good thing. Family? Good. Faith? Good. Equality? Good. But let's not ruin the whole meaning behind it by using it to further agendas.
Peter

Sources:
Juneteenth.com
Speaker of The House Office

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