A Message from Bishop Ruggieri on Juneteenth

Today, June 19, gives us cause to remember and celebrate the historical liberation of those enslaved in the United States. On June 19, 1865, Major General Gordon Granger ordered all enslaved persons in Texas be freed, enforcing the Emancipation Proclamation there.  Six months later, on December 6, 1865, the ratification of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution granted all enslaved persons their freedom in the United States. Section 1 of the amendment states: “Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction.”

While the 13th Amendment to the Constitution legally abolished slavery, it did not eradicate prejudice and dehumanization in our society. Unfortunately, racism, prejudice, and the devaluing of human beings still exists. While we celebrate historical freedom for African American persons and acknowledge the heroism of those who fought for this, we are reminded that we have more to do. 

In his World Day of Peace message from January 1, 2015, Pope Francis writes: “Since we are by nature relational beings, meant to find fulfillment through interpersonal relationships inspired by justice and love, it is fundamental for our human development that our dignity, freedom and autonomy be acknowledged and respected. Tragically, the growing scourge of man’s exploitation by man gravely damages the life of communion and our calling to forge interpersonal relations marked by respect, justice, and love. This abominable phenomenon, which leads to contempt for the fundamental rights of others and to the suppression of their freedom and dignity, takes many forms.” Slavery is indeed one of the ways that human dignity is trampled upon and ignored.

We have come very far, but there is more to go to safeguard the dignity of all human beings at various stages of their human experience. The Gospel hymn, “We’ve Come This Far By Faith,” expresses: 

We’ve Come This Far By Faith,
Leaning On The Lord.
Trusting In His Holy Word.
He’s Never Failed Us Yet.
Oh, Oh-Oh-Can’t Turn Around,
We’ve Come This Far By Faith.

As a Catholic-Christian, these words are literally music to my ears.  Let’s keep working for justice, human justice. We have come this far by faith. We can’t turn around. God bless you.