American Vice-President Kamala Harris celebrated Juneteenth in Los Angeles as she spoke to celebrants about how far the nation has come in its treatment of Black Americans. But she also warned that the fight for freedom was not over.
Kamala Harris spoke of an ongoing fight for freedom that involves all. She said that Americans from all walks of life come together to celebrate Juneteenth, to honor Black excellence, culture, and community.
Kamala Harris was speaking to the thousands of people who had gathered at the Greek Theatre. She said that the celebration was about remembering the full history of America and is a celebration of one of our founding principles, the principle of freedom.
President Biden signed a bipartisan bill into law making Juneteenth a public holiday in America. It is the first holiday declared since Martin Luther King Jr. Day was declared 40 years ago.
Kamala Harris: America Is A Promise
The Vice-President reminded the crowd that America was a promise of liberty, freedom, and justice. And the Juneteenth story is one of an ongoing fight to realize the promise for all Americans.
The event was attended by Divine Nine, a group of Black sororities and fraternities. Kamala Harris joined Alpha Kappa Alpha when attending Howard University as an undergraduate.
The show was also attended by other performers that included gospel artist Kirk Franklin, singer Chloe Bailey, Hip-Hop artist Nelly, and R&B vocal trio SWV. The musical director of the event, Adam Blackstone, said that the event was a chance to celebrate one another.
Kamala Harris also tweeted about the celebration and said that it was a recognition of the hard fight that led to emancipation. She said that the celebrations were about recommitting ourselves and striving for a perfect union.
