June 19, 2024 Honoring Juneteenth Recognizing Juneteenth and the Ongoing Fight for Equity Juneteenth is a day of jubilation, marking the moment enslaved people in Texas were notified of their emancipation. Friends of the Children - Houston recognizes the significance of Juneteenth to many Black Americans and allies across the nation. At Friends - Houston, our commitment to ensuring our Black staff and children know they are valued and belong is unwavering. We stand with our Black staff and youth, not just on Juneteenth, but every day of every month of every year. This commitment is a cornerstone of our organization, and we are proud to uphold it. Our core organizational values are not just words on a page but guiding principles. They include putting children first and demanding equity. We acknowledge the historical and present injustices impacting marginalized communities. We demand equity from ourselves and from our community. We celebrate Juneteenth not just as a milestone in Texas’ history, but as part of a continuous journey toward equity and belonging. We are proud to honor the pride, resilience, and contributions of Black Americans within our program and Houston community.