Inside: Inspiring Juneteenth quotes that will help you celebrate this pivotal moment in history
Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19th, marks a pivotal moment in American history—the day in 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, were finally informed of their freedom, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued.
This day serves not only as a commemoration of freedom but also as a reflection on the enduring struggle for racial equality and justice in the United States.
As we honor Juneteenth, it is essential to amplify voices that have shaped this journey. The following quotes, from historical figures to contemporary leaders, offer profound insights and inspiration, reminding us of the resilience, hope, and ongoing quest for liberty and equality.
Juneteenth Quotes
The initial set of Juneteenth quotes captures the essence of freedom and emancipation, highlighting the enduring significance of Juneteenth and the initial steps towards liberty.
1. “Struggle is a never-ending process. Freedom is never really won, you earn it and win it in every generation.” – Coretta Scott King
2. “Juneteenth is a day to reflect on our history and to celebrate the progress we have made.” – Kamala Harris
3. “Nobody’s free until everybody’s free.” – Fannie Lou Hamer
4. “The fight for freedom must go on until it is won; until our country is free and happy and peaceful as a part of the community of man, we cannot rest.” – Oliver Tambo
5. “Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
6. “If the freedom of speech is taken away then dumb and silent we may be led, like sheep to the slaughter.” – George Washington
7. “Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn’t pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same.” – Ronald Reagan
8. “True freedom is understanding that we have a right to be ourselves.” – Sandra Cisneros
9. “Juneteenth is not just a celebration of emancipation, but a reminder that none of us are free until all of us are free.” – Keisha Lance Bottoms
10. “For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.” – Nelson Mandela
Famous Quotes for June 19th
The second collection of Juneteenth quotes delves into the powerful words of the Civil Rights Movement, showcasing the relentless pursuit of justice and equality during the 20th century.
11. “There are still many causes worth sacrificing for, so much history yet to be made.” – Michelle Obama
12. “When you know your history, you are empowered to create a better future.” – Oprah Winfrey
13. “Freedom is never given; it is won.” – A. Philip Randolph
14. “Freedom is the open window through which pours the sunlight of the human spirit and human dignity.” – Herbert Hoover
15. “Freedom is the right to one’s dignity as a man.” – Archibald MacLeish
16. “None are more hopelessly enslaved than those who falsely believe they are free.” – Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
17. “You can’t separate peace from freedom because no one can be at peace unless he has his freedom.” – Malcolm X
18. “Emancipation was a proclamation, but it took the power of the people to make it a reality.” – Stacey Abrams
19. “Juneteenth is a celebration of progress, but also a reminder of how far we still have to go.” – Barack Obama
20. “The way to right wrongs is to turn the light of truth upon them.” – Ida B. Wells
Top Inspiring Juneteenth Quotes
The final selection of Juneteenth quotes features contemporary leaders and thinkers, emphasizing the ongoing journey towards true equality and the importance of continuing the fight for justice today.
21. “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
22. “Freedom means the supremacy of human rights everywhere. Our support goes to those who struggle to gain those rights and keep them.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt
23. “To be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.” – Nelson Mandela
24. “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” – Malcolm X
25. “The time is always right to do what is right.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
26. “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
27. “We may encounter many defeats but we must not be defeated.” – Maya Angelou
28. “We have a powerful potential in our youth, and we must have the courage to change old ideas and practices so that we may direct their power toward good ends.” – Mary McLeod Bethune
29. “Freedom is not a state; it is an act.” – John Lewis
30. “Juneteenth is a reminder that the journey to freedom is long and ongoing, but it is a journey worth making.” – Kamala Harris
31. “Let us march on till victory is won.” – James Weldon Johnson
As we reflect on these powerful quotes, we are reminded of the significance of Juneteenth not only as a historical milestone but as a continual call to action.
The words of those who have fought and continue to fight for freedom, justice, and equality resonate deeply, urging us to honor their legacy by promoting understanding, solidarity, and meaningful change. Let Juneteenth inspire us all to contribute to a future where liberty and equality are realities for everyone.
By sharing these quotes and their timeless messages, we can help ensure that the spirit of Juneteenth lives on in our hearts and actions, fostering a more inclusive and equitable society for generations to come.
