Today we recognize Juneteenth National Independence Day, an official Federal holiday which commemorates an important date in U.S. history. On June 19, 1865, slavery was forever abolished in our country when slaves living in Texas were set free, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. This meant freedom for the multitudes of people, fellow human beings, who were bound by the immoral institution of slavery. This day is a time to reflect on where our nation has been and how we can truly make our country the home of the free, with liberty and justice for all.