IAS Juneteenth Statement

The U’s International and Area Studies programs wish to convey our belated support and recognition of Juneteenth, which commemorates the ending of slavery in the United States on June 19, 1865.  As we commemorate emancipation and freedom from slavery in this country, we are reminded of the ongoing need to actively confront racism and oppression and to work toward racial justice on all fronts. “Juneteenth has never been a celebration of victory or an acceptance of the way things are.  It’s a celebration of progress.  It’s an affirmation that despite the most painful parts of our history, change is possible—and there is still much work to do.”  --Barack Obama.