The Juneteenth Flag, More Than a Symbol

It is that time of year when the Juneteenth flag can be seen throughout our beautiful country, harkening to the arrival of June 19th, a day when we celebrate the release of those still captive in Galveston, TX, in 1866, two whole years after the Emancipation Proclamation.

Key people, such as Opal Lee and others, have made it their mission to bring the holiday to the forefront of the American consciousness, and celebrations are held from East to West to commemorate the end of slavery in America.

While you may see the flag at your local federal building, you may not recognize it for what it is. A symbol of a momentous occasion in our history full of significance and symbolism. This is why, in honor of Juneteenth, we are honored to walk you through the different components of beautiful creation.

Curious about the history of Juneteenth? Check out these articles.

Opal Lee: Trailblazer of Juneteenth

5+ Little Known Juneteenth Facts

The 116 Life: Celebrating Juneteenth

Who Created The Juneteenth Flag?

The Juneteenth flag as it stands today, is the design of artist Lisa Jeanne Graf, who modified the original flag created by activist Ben Haith and Verlene Hines, Azim, and Eliot Des, in 1997.
In 2000, the flag design was revised to add the date June 19, 1866, to commemorate the day Union Army Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger rode into Galveston, Texas, and freed the remaining slaves.

What Does The Juneteenth Flag Represent?

Haith, founder of the National Juneteenth Celebration Foundation (NJCF) said, ““This country has so many aspects to it that are spiritual, and I believe this flag is of that nature,” Haith said. “It (the idea for the design) just came through me.”

What is the meaning of red, white, and blue?

The red, white, and blue of the Juneteenth flag symbolizes the fact that those enslaved were also Americans- the history of the Black community is intertwined with that of the nation. It is also a reminder to all of us that “freedom and justice for all” should be the rule, not the exception.

What does the star and burst mean?

The single white star in the middle of the flag is representative of the lone-star state and the freedom given to all enslaved Africans throughout the 50 states.
The burst, often associated with a nova, or new star, signifies the new beginnings slaves now had with their newfound freedom.

What does the arc mean?

The arc that divides the flag also signals the new horizons and opportunities ahead for all Black people.

A Symbol of Freedom

June 19 is a day of celebration.

All throughout our nation, people celebrate the end of slavery and the pursuit of liberty and happiness by all Black people.

The Juneteenth flag stands as a symbol for everything that June 19, 1866, symbolized for the black community. The colors mark the enslaved Africans as Americans, serving as a reminder that freedom is for all.

But above all else, the arc and the burst signal a new Hope, opportunities, and a new beginning for those who had gained their freedom—a freedom we now enjoy.

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