US Bishops' Release Juneteenth Reflection on "the ongoing reality of systemic racism" - Calling for Renewed Commitment to Human Dignity - USCCB

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops released a video with Most Rev. Daniel E. Garcia, Bishop of Austin, reflecting on Juneteenth, the day Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce the end of slavery more than two years after the Civil War.

He addresses the painful legacy of slavery, often called America's original sin, and the systemic racism that still casts its shadow today. He points to the opportunity Catholics have to recognize the inherent dignity of every person and to renew the commitment to racial justice, reconciliation, and peace.

FULL TEXT - Juneteenth, Human Dignity, and Reconciliation with Bishop Garcia -  As we approach the observance of Juneteenth, I'm drawn to reflect on its history, its enduring significance, and why it speaks so deeply to my heart. As you may know, Juneteenth is when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce the end of slavery, nearly 2 years after the end of the Civil War. Juneteenth invites us to confront the painful legacy of racism in our nation.

The institution of slavery, often called America's original sin, continues to cast a long shadow. Its effects are still present today, especially in the ongoing reality of systemic racism. Yet, Juneteenth also calls us forward. For Catholics in particular, we have an opportunity to call others to recognize the inherent human dignity of each person.

Juneteenth commemorates an important moment in history that challenges us as individuals, as a society, and as the church to renew our commitment to human dignity, racial justice, reconciliation, and peace.

Source: USCCB Youtube