Samuel Collins III, a lifelong Galveston County resident and historian, is dedicated to educating others about Texas Black history and the story of Juneteenth. He is co-chair for Galveston’s Juneteenth Mural Committee, which led to “Absolute Equality,” a mural depicting the history of Juneteenth. The mural has become one of the largest public art projects in the country recognizing the holiday.
Why is Juneteenth important to you?
“Juneteenth celebrates the evolution of our country to a more perfect union. The original Juneteenth event on June 19, 1865 was not total freedom, but was progress to a better America. We are still in pursuit of absolute equality and we are working to make America better. The National Juneteenth holiday gives us a larger platform to educate and empower people. We should use the holiday to educate people about the many Emancipation Days in America and empower people to break free from any chains that hold them back, whether physical or mental.”
If someone wants to learn more about Juneteenth's history in Texas, where should they go and why?
“They can always visit Galveston Texas, the birthplace of Juneteenth. If they are unable to travel to Galveston Island, they can find resources online, at a bookstore or local library. They should visit museums and cultural centers that teach Juneteenth history. In Galveston, people can visit the Nia Cultural Center Juneteenth Legacy Project Headquarters, Reedy Chapel AME Church, Ashton Villa "And Still We Rise" exhibition, and Rosenberg Library.”
What lessons can we still learn as a country from Juneteenth?
“Freedom did not happen for everyone at the same time, and the freedoms gained are not guaranteed. We must constantly fight for freedom and equality. We must study the past in the present to improve the future and not repeat the mistakes of the past. We must teach empathy for other communities in our country that may be getting exploited.”
