(ELMONT, INWOOD and VALLEY STREAM, N.Y.) - Nassau County Legislator Carrié Solages (D - Lawrence) joined community leaders in observing Juneteenth across the Third Legislative District. Legislator Solages attended a community barbecue at Inwood Park that was organized by Bishop Warren C. Shivers, Gammy’s Pantry founder Sasha Young and their families; supported Black-owned businesses with a visit to Valley Stream’s Standard Pour Long Island coffee shop; and a Juneteenth celebration in Elmont spearheaded by the Elmont Cultural Center with support from Legislator Solages’ office.
“Days after Juneteenth became America’s newest federal holiday, it was truly encouraging to witness the enthusiasm that exists across the Third Legislative District for this meaningful celebration of emancipation and Black culture in America,” Legislator Solages said. “I hope this represents the beginning of beautiful Juneteenth traditions across our County and a source of inspiration for all who continue to advocate for equality and justice in every aspect of our society.”
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…”
PHOTO CAPTIONS - From left, Legislator Solages attends a Juneteenth barbecue at Inwood Park; visits Valley Stream’s Standard Pour Long Island coffee shop; and supports Elmont’s Juneteenth celebration - an event Legislator Solages’ office helped to organize.
PHOTO CREDITS - Office of Nassau County Legislator Carrié Solages