MILWAUKEE — Milwaukee is preparing for one of the nation's oldest and largest Juneteenth celebrations, a holiday that marks the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States. But for many Americans, the full story and significance of this important day remain unknown or misunderstood.
"Number one there are many emancipation celebrations, Juneteenth is what has survived because of its significance and wide spread celebratory nature, Juneteenth kinda brings them all together," said Dr. Robert S. Smith, UWM Professor of History and resident historian at the American Black Holocaust Museum.
Smith emphasized that Juneteenth is about more than celebration — it's an opportunity for everyone to revisit history and develop a deeper understanding of American citizenship.
Watch: Milwaukee historian explains the deeper meaning of Juneteenth
"It's the celebration of America's first experiment with a racial democracy, don't wanna take away from July 4th. America's birthday is important. It is an expression of citizenship, the recognition of citizenship it is the way African Americans begin to articulate and operationalize citizenship in the 14th amendment, equal protection, due process, if you're in favor of those, then you should be celebrating Juneteenth," Smith said.
When asked what white Americans who feel disconnected from the holiday should know about Juneteenth, Smith was clear about its universal significance.
"Juneteenth is central to what it means to be America, what it means to be a part of a bodied politic, what it means to be a person who can exercise political voice," Smith said.
As more Americans join in the celebration, Smith offers perspective for those who might feel disconnected from its roots.
"It brings together resistance, it brings celebration and healing it brings community into the conversation, it forces and welcomes corporations to be apart of it," Smith said. "It's an opportunity for our black businesses to be on display, it's all of that wrapped into this wonderful moment of celebration."
On a day when thousands will fill King Drive for the festival, Smith encourages attendees to also step inside the museum. You can learn more at www.abhmuseum.org.
"It learn a little more, engage with some art and welcome families to get a bit of respit from the heat," Smith said.
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