Milwaukee is preparing for one of the nation’s oldest and largest Juneteenth celebrations, a holiday that marks the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States. But for many Americans, the full story and significance of this important day remain unknown or misunderstood.
“Number one there are many emancipation celebrations, Juneteenth is what has survived because of its significance and wide spread celebratory nature, Juneteenth kinda brings them all together,” said Dr. Robert S. Smith, UWM Professor of History and resident historian at the American Black Holocaust Museum.
Smith emphasized that Juneteenth is about more than celebration — it’s an opportunity for everyone to revisit history and develop a deeper understanding of American citizenship.
Watch: Milwaukee historian explains the deeper meaning of Juneteenth
Milwaukee historian explains the deeper meaning of Juneteenth as city prepares for major celebration
“It’s the celebration of America’s first experiment with a racial democracy, don’t wanna take away from July 4th. America’s birthday is important. It is an expression of citizenship, the recognition of citizenship it is the way African Americans begin to articulate and operationalize citizenship in the 14th amendment, equal protection, due process, if you’re in favor of those, then you should be celebrating Juneteenth,” Smith said.
When asked what white Americans who feel disconnected from the holiday should know about Juneteenth, Smith was clear about its universal significance…