President Biden Hosts Juneteenth Concert to Celebrate Freedom and Black Excellence.
United States President Joe Biden organized a special concert on the South Lawn of the White House to honor Juneteenth, the newest federal holiday. President Biden expressed his belief that Juneteenth will revitalize the core essence of America.
Juneteenth commemorates the abolition of slavery in the United States and was declared a federal holiday by President Biden in 2021. According to Biden, making Juneteenth a federal holiday holds profound significance, as it acknowledges the country’s historical roots and the original sin of slavery. He emphasized that the Civil War was not solely about preserving the union but was fundamentally a struggle for freedom and the soul of the nation.
Vice President Kamala Harris highlighted the importance of Juneteenth as a time to celebrate Black excellence, culture, and community. She emphasized that America’s promise is rooted in freedom, liberty, and justice, and Juneteenth represents an ongoing fight to fulfill that promise for all individuals.
The concert, which also celebrated Black Music Month, featured notable artists such as Tony Award winner Audra McDonald and singer/talk show host Jennifer Hudson.
In 2021, President Biden signed bipartisan legislation establishing Juneteenth as a federal holiday. This significant day marks the historic moment on June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers informed the last enslaved Black people in Galveston, Texas, of their freedom.
