Statement from Commerce Secretary Raimondo in Recognition of the Juneteenth Holiday

Statement from Commerce Secretary Raimondo in Recognition of the Juneteenth Holiday
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Mon, 06/20/2022 – 08:06

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Monday, June 20, 2022

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Commerce Secretary Gina M. Raimondo released the following statement in recognition of the Juneteenth Holiday:

Juneteenth represents the delayed freedom of the last enslaved Black Americans, the triumph and perseverance of a community, and the ongoing work that still needs to be done to root out systemic racism and ensure equality and justice for all. To recognize this historical day, last year President Biden signed legislation to mark Juneteenth as a federal holiday in recognition of the day’s significance and the tireless advocacy of Black Americans who worked to honor this important piece of our history.

While there is still much work to be done, together we will fulfill America’s promise to all Americans. Earlier this year, the Commerce Department updated our mission statement to reflect our explicit commitment to ensuring every and all Americans benefits from economic growth and opportunity. This mission guides our work across programs every day to ensure racial equality is at the center of our work and that no community is left behind – whether it is ensuring access to high-speed affordable internet, elevating minority-owned businesses and entrepreneurs or supporting workforce development programs for the industries of tomorrow. This Juneteenth is an opportunity to remember the progress our nation has made and our obligation to continue moving it forward.

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Equity
Secretary Gina Raimondo

Read the full report from the U.S. Department of Commerce: Read More