How my family history in Galveston made Juneteenth more than just a holiday
Juneteenth Hits Different
When I was a kid, the Fourth of July was my favorite holiday. Not because of the history, but because of the food, the fun, and the freedom to run around all day. We had big cookouts, loud music, and a house full of laughter. That was enough for me.
What I didn’t know back then was that while America was celebrating its independence on July 4, 1776, my ancestors were still enslaved. And it wasn’t until June 19, 1865, almost two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation, that freedom finally reached them in Galveston, Texas.
That’s the day we now know as Juneteenth.
This Story Is Personal
My grandma was born and raised in Galveston. Over the years, I’ve visited several times, and each time I go, something shifts in me. I feel grounded. I feel peace. There’s a connection I can’t fully explain, but I know it’s real. Being there reminds me that I’m walking the same land where my ancestors waited, hoped, and eventually received news of their freedom.
And here’s a fun fact that makes me love Galveston even more—Beyoncé’s mom is from there too. After reading her book, I made a decision. Me and Beyoncé are cousins. It just makes sense, and I’m sticking with it.
Bonus fun fact: The official Juneteenth flag is red, white, and blue, not the colors of the Pan-African flag.
Learning the Truth
Growing up, no one taught me about Juneteenth. It didn’t come up at school, and it wasn’t something I heard about at home either. I didn’t start learning the history until I was an adult. Once I did, everything changed. I realized that Juneteenth wasn’t just a moment in history. It was part of my history.
Galveston isn’t just a place. It’s part of who I am.
Why I Celebrate
I celebrate Juneteenth to honor the people who waited, the ones who survived long after they should’ve been free. I celebrate because I know where I come from, and I’m proud of that.
This holiday reminds me that our freedom has never come easy. But even when it came late, we claimed it anyway. We kept building, living, and celebrating.
So yes, I still love a good cookout. I still love gathering with my people. But now, I do it with more purpose.
These days, I celebrate by showing up—at festivals, in community, spending my dollars with Black-owned businesses, and Juneteenth nails 💅
I also rest. Deep rest. On behalf of my ancestors who didn’t get that chance until it was almost too late. That rest is sacred.
One day soon, I hope to celebrate Juneteenth in Galveston, with my family beside me, standing on the same land that made us.
Because Juneteenth is mine. Galveston is home. And somewhere out there, my cousin Beyoncé is probably celebrating too. ☺️
Happy Juneteenth friends! 🤍💙❤️💚💛
Grace not Perfection 
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