Rep. Stansbury Releases Statement on Juneteenth

ALBUQUERQUE — U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) released the following statement on Juneteenth: 

“Today, on Juneteenth, we celebrate the joy and hope of freedom, rooted in our nation’s darkest days—and the continued hope, resilience, and work ahead to achieve the true promise of justice and equity for all. 

“As we reflect on the events leading up to the celebration of Juneteenth and the emancipation of those who remained enslaved for nearly two years in Texas after the Emancipation Proclamation—we must never forget our country’s original sin, how it has shaped generations of Americans, and the impact it has on our communities today. 

“Black Americans have celebrated Juneteenth for generations—marking this day with remembrances of the wrongfully enslaved and uplifting the stories of their freedom. 

“It is critical that as we move forward, we amplify Black voices, stories, and histories, reimagine and remake the systems that continue to serve and impact communities, and ensure we have a clearer and more vibrant understanding of the New Mexico we live in—and understand that Black history is New Mexico history. 

“As we celebrate, we must hold this history at the forefront of our conversations to find solutions and continually recommit ourselves to change—rooted in that promise of freedom, justice, and equity for all.”