By State Rep. Debra Entenman
Remember where we started.
Juneteenth is more than a date on a calendar. It is the day the promise of freedom finally reached those who had been denied it. It is a reminder that liberty delayed is still liberty denied, and that citizenship means little if it cannot be exercised. As we commemorate Juneteenth in 2026, we do so at the intersection of two anniversaries: the celebration of Black freedom and the 250th anniversary of a nation founded in 1776 on ideals that did not yet include all of its people.
For Black Americans, the distance between 1776 and Juneteenth tells a story all its own.
It is the story of a people who believed freedom was their birthright and who challenged America to become what it claimed to be.
It is the story of a people who built this nation, defended this nation, and challenged this nation to become better than it was.
And it is the story of a people whose sacrifices demand more from us than remembrance.
They demand participation.
They demand leadership.
They demand action.
Recognize that every right we possess was purchased by someone’s courage. From abolitionists and educators to soldiers and organizers, generations of Black Americans invested their labor, their voices, and sometimes their lives to move this
nation forward. The greatest tribute we can offer them is not applause for their achievements but action in our own time. Register. Vote. Participate.
Understand that representation has never been given freely. It has always been earned through persistence, civic engagement, and collective action. During Reconstruction, Black Americans entered public office and helped reshape the nation. Those gains were challenged and often reversed, but the determination to participate never disappeared. Our responsibility is to continue building where they were forced to rebuild. Show up. Organize. Stay engaged.
Remember that voter suppression has taken many forms throughout American history. Sometimes it appeared through laws, sometimes through intimidation, and sometimes through attempts to convince people that their vote does not matter. The lesson of history is clear: when people stop participating, others make decisions for them. Protect your voice by using it. Vote in every election, not just presidential elections.
Recognize the power of local leadership. School boards, city councils, county commissions, state legislatures, and Congress all shape daily life. Black civic engagement has always extended beyond national headlines. Communities are strengthened when citizens remain informed and involved. Learn the issues. Know the candidates. Hold leaders accountable.
Honor the legacy of the Civil Rights Movement by understanding what was truly won. The struggle was never simply about access; it was about influence. It was about ensuring that every citizen could help shape the future of the country. Rights become strongest when exercised. Use them. Defend them. Pass them on.
Remember that Black representation is not merely about who occupies a seat. It is about ensuring that communities have a voice in decisions that affect their futures. The election of Black leaders at every level of government reflects generations of sacrifice and determination. That progress must never be taken for granted. Support civic participation. Encourage others to vote. Build the next generation of leaders.
Recognize that democracy is not self-sustaining. Every generation inherits both opportunities and obligations. The freedoms we enjoy today survived because previous generations refused to remain silent. Their example calls us to become active citizens rather than passive observers. Participate consistently. Speak constructively. Lead courageously.
As America marks its 250th anniversary in 2026, we celebrate not only the nation’s history but also the enduring contributions of Black Americans to its democratic life. From 1776 to today, the story of Black civic engagement has been a story of perseverance, faith, and action. Our ancestors opened doors that many believed would remain closed forever.
The question before us is simple: What will we do with the inheritance they left behind?
The answer must be action.
Vote because they could not.
Vote because they fought to.
Vote because representation matters.
Vote because democracy requires participation.
Vote because history demands remembrance.
Vote because the future demands stewardship.
And vote because the surest way to honor our ancestors is not merely to celebrate their victories, but to continue their work.
