Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, is an annual holiday celebrated on June 19th in the United States. This day signifies the legal abolition of slavery in the nation and honors the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. The history of Juneteenth began on June 19, 1865. Two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed into law, Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and declared the emancipation of slaves. It has become progressively more recognized, encouraging the study, reflection, and commemoration of African American history and culture. Juneteenth symbolizes the continuing fight for justice, equality, and freedom for all while serving as an acknowledgment of the challenges and relentlessness of African Americans.

For EmVenio’s Senior Director of Applications & PMO, Phillip Standford, Juneteenth holds a special meaning. Phillip was born and raised in Galveston, TX, where he lived with his family on the island. He grew up hearing about the Union troops’ march through the island on June 19th, 1865, long before it was taught in school. Reading about General Order No. 3, freeing hundreds of thousands of enslaved people in the Confederacy’s last vestiges was part of his family and local community history.

“For me, Juneteenth is a day of joy and celebration, but it is also a day to reflect on the ongoing struggle for racial equality. As a Black man in America, I know that I still face discrimination and prejudice. But I also know that I am standing on the shoulders of giants, who have fought for my freedom and the freedom of all Americans.” says Phillip.

 Juneteenth is a reminder that we have come a long way, but there is still more work to be done. It is a day to celebrate our progress and recommit ourselves to the fight for equality.                           

Phillip states that he is proud to work for a company that celebrates inclusion, diversity, and equality both in research and for all humankind.

At EmVenio, we’re proud to stand with Phillip and the entire African American community as we recognize the importance of Juneteenth and the continued struggle for true equality and freedom. Thank you for sharing your story, Phillip.