This law comes on the heels of legislation introduced in 21 states banning the teaching of the true and complete history of the United States, including Juneteenth and other historical perspectives on racism and oppression in this country: Weingarten said: “Republicans and Democrats in Congress came together to recognize the importance of Juneteenth and the freedom and emancipation that the day symbolizes for our nation. While we celebrate this new federal holiday, we also must learn from it, particularly the lessons of struggle, trauma and violence, as well as perseverance, triumph and achievement, that is the lived experience of Black Americans. Ironically, because of some new laws passed in states like Texas—the birthplace of Juneteenth—educators will be stopped from teaching about this new holiday and its importance. That is just wrong. Freedom gained was and is not the end of racism and injustice in this country. To build a more just and equitable future, we must learn from and reflect on our past, and teach accurate history in our schools, so we can discuss and learn from the events that should never be forgotten.
