Back in Time Today
Juneteenth — observed on June 19 — commemorates the day in 1865 when the last enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, were informed of their freedom, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. It stands as a powerful symbol of liberation, resilience, and the enduring struggle for justice and equality in America. To celebrate this historic day, here are 21 powerful quotes that reflect the spirit of Juneteenth — honoring the courage, strength, and progress of generations past, present, and future.
1. Paul Robeson Quote
“My people have a country of their own to go to if they choose… Africa… but this America belongs to us.” — Paul Robeson
Robeson’s declaration is a poignant reminder of the African American’s integral role in shaping America. Their contributions in various fields are immeasurable, from arts to politics. These achievements affirm their rightful place in America.
This quote signifies pride and ownership, encouraging generations to embrace their heritage while claiming their space in the country they’ve helped build.
2. Fannie Lou Hamer Quote
“Nobody’s free until everybody’s free.” — Fannie Lou Hamer
Hamer’s words resonate with the spirit of collective liberation. True freedom extends beyond individual experience; it demands inclusivity and equality.
Her activism highlights the interconnectedness of human rights, reminding us that the struggle for justice is universal. These words inspire a united front against oppression, urging everyone to work together toward a truly free society.
3. Unknown Quote on Emancipation
“Emancipation was a proclamation, but not a realization.” — Unknown
This anonymous quote underscores the gap between legal freedom and lived reality. While emancipation marked a new chapter, systemic injustices persisted.
It serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle to actualize true freedom and equality. This quote encourages reflection on progress and the continued need for advocacy and reform.
4. Frederick Douglass Quote
“If there is no struggle, there is no progress.” — Frederick Douglass
Douglass’s assertion remains a cornerstone of change, emphasizing the necessity of perseverance. Struggles, though challenging, pave the way for transformation.
His life exemplifies this belief, as he fought tirelessly for abolition and equality. This quote inspires resilience, encouraging individuals and communities to persist in their pursuit of justice.
5. June Jordan Quote
“We are the ones we’ve been waiting for.” — June Jordan
Jordan’s empowering words instill a sense of agency and responsibility. Change begins with each of us, urging active participation in societal transformation.
Her quote calls for personal commitment to the future, inspiring individuals to take initiative and effect change. It reinforces the belief that collective action is key to progress.
6. Maya Angelou Quote
“You may shoot me with your words… but still, like dust, I’ll rise.” — Maya Angelou
Angelou’s iconic lines celebrate indomitable spirit and resilience. Despite adversity, she rises with dignity and strength.
Her poetry is a testament to overcoming injustice and oppression. This quote serves as a beacon of hope and empowerment, encouraging others to rise above challenges.
7. Angela Davis Quote
“I am no longer accepting the things I cannot change. I am changing the things I cannot accept.” — Angela Davis
Davis’s words embody proactive resistance. Refusing complacency, she champions transformation through action.
This quote is a clarion call for social justice, urging individuals to confront and change injustices. It inspires courage and determination to forge a better world.
8. Martin Luther King Jr. Quote
“None of us are free until all of us are free.” — Martin Luther King Jr.
King’s sentiment underscores interconnectedness in the fight for freedom. Individual liberty must extend to all for true justice to prevail.
His advocacy for civil rights highlighted the collective nature of liberation. This quote remains a powerful call to action for universal equality and justice.
9. Opal Lee Quote
“Juneteenth is a time to reflect, rejoice, and renew our commitment to equality.” — Opal Lee
Known as the “Grandmother of Juneteenth,” Lee’s lifelong activism led to its recognition as a national holiday.
Her words encapsulate the essence of Juneteenth, celebrating progress while urging continued dedication to equality. This quote inspires reflection and celebration of achievements in the journey towards justice.
10. W.E.B. Du Bois Quote
“The cost of liberty is less than the price of repression.” — W.E.B. Du Bois
Du Bois highlights the enduring value of freedom. Liberty, while hard-won, is priceless compared to the oppression it overcomes.
His scholarly work and activism championed civil rights, emphasizing the necessity of defending freedom. This quote compels us to recognize liberty’s worth and the importance of safeguarding it.
11. Brittany Packnett Cunningham Quote
“Black liberation has never just been about Black people. It’s been about a fight for humanity.” — Brittany Packnett Cunningham
Cunningham’s perspective broadens the scope of liberation. It’s a universal struggle, emphasizing shared humanity and justice for all.
Her advocacy in education and social reform highlights this interconnected vision. This quote invites everyone to see liberation as a collective responsibility.
12. A. Philip Randolph Quote
“Freedom is never given; it is won.” — A. Philip Randolph
Randolph’s assertion speaks to the active pursuit of justice. Freedom requires dedication and action, not passivity.
His role in labor and civil rights movements exemplifies the fight for equitable rights. This quote serves as a call to persist in the struggle for freedom.
13. Amanda Gorman Quote
“We will not march back to what was, but move to what shall be.” — Amanda Gorman
Gorman’s words inspire forward-thinking and progress. Her vision is rooted in hope and the potential for change.
As a young poet, she embodies the spirit of transformation, urging society to embrace new possibilities. This quote motivates a collective shift towards a brighter future.
14. Rosa Parks Quote
“To bring about change, you must not be afraid to take the first step.” — Rosa Parks
Parks’s quiet strength sparked a movement. Her courage to act paved the way for transformative social change.
This quote emphasizes the power of individual action. It inspires bold steps towards a just and equitable world, honoring Parks’s legacy.
15. Malcolm X Quote
“You can’t separate peace from freedom, because no one can be at peace unless he has his freedom.” — Malcolm X
Malcolm X’s insight links peace and freedom, both essential for true equality. His activism highlighted the urgent need for systemic change.
This quote challenges us to recognize the link between justice and harmony, advocating for a society where both are paramount.
16. Kwame Nkrumah Quote
“Freedom is not something that one people can bestow on another as a gift. They claim it as their own and none can keep it from them.” — Kwame Nkrumah
Nkrumah’s words emphasize self-determination. Liberation is claimed, not given, underscoring individual and collective agency.
His leadership in Ghana’s independence movement exemplifies this principle. This quote empowers all to pursue freedom actively.
17. James Weldon Johnson Quote
“We have come over a way that with tears has been watered.” — James Weldon Johnson, Lift Every Voice and Sing
Johnson’s lyrics poignantly capture the African American journey. The path to freedom is lined with struggle, yet filled with hope.
His contributions to art and civil rights highlight resilience and faith. This quote is a testament to enduring strength and progress.
18. Black National Anthem Lyric
“Let us march on ’til victory is won.” — From the Black National Anthem
This anthem lyric embodies hope and perseverance. The journey toward justice is ongoing, marked by collective effort and resilience.
Its words inspire unity and determination, encouraging continued action against injustice. This quote is a rallying cry for enduring progress.
19. Maya Angelou Quote on Global Unity
“What happens to any of us, anywhere in the world, had better be the business of us all.” — Maya Angelou
Angelou’s call for empathy transcends borders. Her global vision for unity and shared responsibility is compelling.
This quote encourages worldwide solidarity, reminding us that our fates are intertwined. It inspires action towards greater understanding and cooperation.
20. Michelle Alexander Quote
“Slavery didn’t end in 1865. It evolved.” — Michelle Alexander
Alexander’s observation points to the persistence of systemic oppression. While legal slavery ended, its legacy continues.
Her work on mass incarceration challenges us to see and dismantle these systems. This quote urges ongoing vigilance and reform.
21. Unknown Quote on Juneteenth’s Ongoing Story
“Juneteenth is not the end of the story — it’s a chapter. And we’re still writing the rest.” — Unknown
This quote captures Juneteenth as part of a larger narrative. Progress continues, with new chapters being written each day.
It’s a call to action, inviting everyone to contribute to the ongoing story of liberation and equality. It inspires hope and perseverance as we look to the future.