Leader Jeffries Statement on Juneteenth

June 19th, 2026 | Press Release LEADER JEFFRIES STATEMENT ON JUNETEENTH Today, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries released the following statement: Since 1619, Black Americans have been an inextricable part of the gorgeous mosaic of the United States, but it was not until June 19, 1865, when Union troops delivered orders enforcing emancipation to Texas, that our nation finally started to live up to its ideals of liberty and justice for all. Juneteenth is a time to honor the resilience of Black Americans and commemorate the formerly enslaved who fought for their freedom. Without their fight, the Civil War Amendments guaranteeing citizenship, equal protection under the law and the right to vote would not have been possible. During Reconstruction, the government was a temporary dam against white supremacy. Today, Donald Trump and sycophantic MAGA Republicans are corruptly abusing their power to deliberately make life worse for Black Americans. Economic opportunity, access to affordable healthcare and Black political representation have all been eviscerated because of Republican policies. As we celebrate our nation’s newest federal holiday, House Democrats are committed to defending our constitutionally-protected rights, making life better for Americans in every single ZIP code and ending the extremism being visited on our country. We will press on until victory is won. ### Back to News Share: Facebook Twitter