Widely considered to be one of the longest running African American holidays in the United States, Juneteenth finally became a federal holiday in 2021, signed and ordered by President Joe Biden. As an organization of unionized workers, we are appalled and against the past and present treatment of our Black brothers and sisters in the U.S. and around the world.
While Juneteenth marks an end to slavery, it does little to curtail the institutional racism, and abhorrent inherent belief systems, that some hold true and currently exists. As we honor the heroes of times past—who stood up for what was right, while defending freedoms of people—we are grateful to those who still have a voice, speak up, and attempt to right the wrongs of injustice.
Council 100 celebrates freedoms everywhere, for all humankind, but especially today; and especially for those whose ancestors were enslaved not that long ago. Yes, today, is a day of celebration of what shall never be again, yet it is also a day of remembrance—reminding us to never become complacent or forget what this nation once was. Ever. Again.
In Solidarity,
AFGE Council 100
Hydrick Thomas, President | Mac Johnson, Council Executive Vice President | Johnny Jones, Council Secretary-Treasurer | Shabay Izquierdo, Region 1 V.P. | John Hubert, Region 2 V.P. | Janis Casey, Region 3 V.P. | Becky Mancha, Region 4 V.P. | Greg Biel, Region 5 V.P. | Bobby Orozco Jr., Region 6 V.P. | Joe Shuker, Region 7 V.P. | Victor Payes Martinez, Fair Practices Coordinator | Concetta Fialkowski, Women’s Coordinator | Christopher Blessing, AFGE Council 100 Attorney