Athletes Reflect On Juneteenth Day Celebrations

Athletes from across various sports today shared their thoughts and reflected on what Juneteenth Day means to them.

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According to BBC News “On 19 June 1865 – months after the northern US states defeated the South in a civil war fought over slavery – enslaved African-Americans in Galveston, Texas, were told they were free. The day became known as Juneteenth, a word created by joining the words “June” and “nineteenth” together.”

Juneteenth Day was declared a holiday by President Joe Biden on June 17th, 2021.

Former DB Michael Thomas explained a little bit about what Juneteenth Day is all about.

What is American holiday #Juneteenth?@Michael31Thomas visits Galveston, Texas where General Order No. 3 was given on June 19, 1865 and slaves were informed that they were free. pic.twitter.com/1BlNuw4aCd

— NFL (@NFL) June 19, 2021

Today I reflect on the significance of #Juneteenth & celebrate our freedom to live the American dream. Juneteenth is now a national holiday but work still needs to be done to address racial inequalities in our society. It’s time to break down systemic racism once & for all. 🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/1JPwU70B17

— Emmitt Smith (@EmmittSmith22) June 19, 2021

Tyrann Mathieu sees hope as he celebrates #Juneteenth (via @Mathieu_Era, @Chiefs) pic.twitter.com/fiDKlAdUfr

— NFL (@NFL) June 19, 2021

“Praise and push people who are doing something to push the culture forward.” pic.twitter.com/JmQN9VahLt

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) June 19, 2021

Tracing his roots, Willie O’Ree learned his great-great grandfather Paris was born into slavery in South Carolina in 1764.

Paris escaped to freedom at age 15. Several generations later, Willie made hockey history.

On #Juneteenth, read about Paris O’Ree: https://t.co/6xHrh4u6FX pic.twitter.com/2Kp6Vx3mky

— NHL (@NHL) June 19, 2021

Happy Juneteenth Day to everyone!

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