Wisconsin State Capitol flies Juneteenth Flag
Celebrating Juneteenth at the Wisconsin State Capitol
Madison, WI - Wisconsin's leaders gathered on Wednesday for the Juneteenth Flag raising ceremony at the State Capitol. In attendance were Governor Tony Evers, members of the Wisconsin Legislative Black Caucus, administration officials, and local and state leaders.
Governor Evers declared June 19 as Juneteenth statewide, marking the formal end of slavery in the United States. He emphasized the importance of this day, remarking, "In honoring this holiday, we renew our commitment to building a Wisconsin that value every person and respects all."
Evers explained that Major General Gordon Granger announced the end of slavery in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865 - more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued.
The Juneteenth flag, displayed proudly, features a star for Texas and new beginnings, and its colors of red, white, and blue symbolize the freedom of those who were once enslaved and their descendants. The curve splitting the red and blue colors represents a new horizon and endless opportunities for Black Americans.
Governor Evers first ordered the Juneteenth Flag raising in 2020. To make space for this unifying symbol, the Progress Pride Flag will be lowered from Wednesday to sunset. The U.S. flag, Wisconsin state flag, and the POW-MIA flag will continue to fly as usual.
The Juneteenth Flag - A Symbol of Emancipation and Hope
Created in 1997 by Ben Haith and Lisa Jeanne Graf, the official Juneteenth flag is filled with meaningful symbolism:
- The star at the center represents Texas, symbolizing freedom for African Americans nationwide.
- The surrounding burst signifies a new beginning for African Americans.
- The arc beneath the star represents a new horizon full of possibilities.
- The red, white, and blue colors speak to the African Americans' integral role in American society.
Red, often seen during Juneteenth celebrations, holds significance in West African traditions, representing power, sacrifice, and the bloodshed endured during slavery.
Acknowledgement and Commemoration
The display of the Juneteenth flag at Wisconsin's State Capitol highlights the historical significance of Juneteenth, celebrates the African American legacy, and symbolizes the ongoing fight for racial justice and equality. Displaying the flag in public spaces like the Wisconsin State Capitol is a demonstration of inclusivity, remembrance, and education on this important day of emancipation and American history.
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- In the spirit of inclusivity and education, the display of the Juneteenth flag at the Wisconsin State Capitol, a symbol of emancipation and hope, serves to acknowledge the historical significance of Juneteenth, celebrate African American legacy, and showcase the ongoing pursuit for racial justice and equality.
- As the Juneteenth flag, filled with meaningful symbolism, takes center stage at the State Capitol, it also represents a general-news topic of political importance, marking a milestone in American history that continues to hold relevance in modern politics and society.
