June 19th is Juneteenth! The word “Juneteenth”, a combination of June and nineteenth, also known as “Jubilee Day, Freedom Day, Emancipation Day, National Independence Day and Black Independence Day”. The slaves were freed on January 1, 1863, but it took a long time for word to reach other parts of the United States. On June 19, 1865, the Union Army informed the enslaved people in Galveston, Texas about the Emancipation Proclamation, making them among the last freed. First celebrated in Galveston in 1866, Texas made it a state holiday in 1979. Designated as a federal holiday in 2021, Juneteenth focuses on family and joyfulness through parades, music, dance, and delicious Southern Soul Food! The types and preparation of food also have significant meaning. There are often grilled or barbequed meats, and festive red foods and beverages; red represents the struggle and lost lives as well as resilience of the people.
Here are some recipes that you may want to prepare with your family to celebrate Juneteenth
Hoppin’ John with Okra and Oven Fried Fish
BBQ Chicken, Southern Style Potato Salad, Grilled Corn
June/2022 Written by and 📷Photo Credit by: U. R. Taylor, MS, RDN, CDN 📷
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