From the President: Juneteenth Observance on Campus

Dear campus community,

 

Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865 – the date on which the promise of the Emancipation Proclamation was fulfilled as enslaved people in Galveston, Texas learned the Civil War and slavery had ended.

 

Unfortunately, reminders are frequent that while slavery ended long ago racial justice remains painfully elusive. Juneteenth offers an opportunity to recognize an important, if unfulfilled, moment in U.S. history and to reflect, learn and grow. 

 

In observance of Juneteenth, the California State University is hosting its inaugural Juneteenth Symposium on June 15 and 16 in Los Angeles. The symposium is designed as a celebration of African American history and an opportunity to promote and proliferate anti-racism activities across all CSU campuses. Author and Princeton University Professor Emeritus Dr. Cornel West is among the many distinguished speakers and guests.

 

All are welcome to register for the live stream of this important celebration. The University will host a watch party on Wednesday, June 15, 8:30 a.m. –  noon, in the Cesar Chavez Student Center Food Court. There will be multiple monitors in the area for viewing and light refreshments while supplies last. RSVP if you plan to attend the watch party. Supervisors are encouraged to allow staff time to attend or stream some of the sessions, as unit operations permit.

 

SF State is also home to a “pocket” Emancipation Proclamation dating from the period—a small format that allowed word of the act and the goal of abolition to be shared with enslaved peoples. Sutro Library, located on the 5th and 6th floor of the J. Paul Leonard Library, will also host an event on Wednesday, June 15, 1 – 4 pm, for the University Community to view the copy of the Emancipation Proclamation and other documents related to the time period.

 

For two days, the CSU will come together to learn and strengthen our anti-racism work. Please join as you are able.