Independence Day July 2ndAm I jumping the gun or do I have my days mixed up? Read this short Squidoo Lens\article for the answer. American Independence Happy JuneteenthToday we celebrate the abolition of slavery in the sate of Texas. The Emancipation Proclamation was issued by President Abraham Lincoln on September 22, 1862. Though it was to be effective January 1, 1863 not everyone was on board. This includes Texas. Emancipation had to be enforced on June 18, 1865, by Union General Gordon Granger and 2,000 federal troops. They arrived in Galveston, Texas to take possession of the state and enforce the emancipation of slaves. Though slavery was abolished ignorance and cruelty remained even one hundred years later. Racial equality in the US has come a long way since the 1960's. In the 70's I was a white kid growing up in a mostly black community. I had many friends but also those who abused me because of the color of my skin. This did not change me or breed prejudice within me however. How could I be resentful knowing that even then black people were not treated the same as I. All I could do is what we must still do today in the face of lingering racism. We must show love in the face of hate and live as an example to others. Today is Flag Day and also the birthday of the U.S. Army. The Continental Congress founded the Army on June 14 1775 when it authorized the enlistment ten companies of riflemen to protect the United Colonies for one year. A consensus was reached in The Committee of the Whole and Congress adopted the American continental army. A committee including delegates George Washington and Philip Schuyler to draft rules and regulations to govern the army. On June 14 1777 the flag of the United States was adopted by resolution of the Second Continental Congress. Flag Day was officially established in 1916 by a proclamation issued by President Woodrow Wilson. Later in August 1949 an Act of Congress established National Flag Day. Our flag represents a country founded on freedom and our armed forces are comprised of those that see to the protection of that freedom. Take time today to honor those brave men and women. You can read more about the Army Birthday and Flag Day at Wikipedia. Have a wonderful day America. |