(ELMONT, N.Y.) - Nassau County Legislator Carrié Solages (D - Lawrence) joined New York State Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages, the Gift of Giving Foundation and an array of community partners in hosting a Juneteenth cookout that drew more than 700 people to the Diamond Parking Lot at UBS Arena on Monday, June 20.
Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. It specifically refers to the June 19, 1865 issuance of Union General Gordon Granger’s “General Order No. 3,” which brought news of President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation to the people of Texas in these words:
“The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free,” the order reads in part. “This involves an absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves…”
“Juneteenth a commemoration of freedom and a wonderful time to illuminate the beauty of Black culture, celebrate Black excellence in every aspect of society, and renew our commitment to the battle for equality for all people,” Legislator Solages said. “I thank Assemblywoman Solages, the Gift of Giving Foundation and all of the sponsors that made this event such an uplifting success.”
PHOTO CREDITS - Office of Legislator Carrié Solages