April 8, 2008
Dear Partner of Freedom:
Over the past 17 years, thousands of Coloradoans have read and enjoyed African American Voice newspaper, which, from its inception, has labored to inform, educate, and connect the diverse communities of the Colorado Front Range.
Two of the Voice’s most significant contributions to Colorado are the publication of the Colorado Guide to Diversity and hosting of the annual Juneteenth Festival. In past years, large and small businesses and organizations have partnered with us to support this worthwhile undertaking. Perhaps this is your first time. Be it an annual commitment, or your first-ever participation, we invite you to join us to make 2008 the best year ever!
Juneteenth began its long, unsteady journey into history on January 1, 1863, when President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. In theory, it freed all the slaves. In actuality, it was simply a piece of paper whose full import was yet to be recognized. Its background was one of the bloodiest confrontations on U.S. soil—the American Civil War. Until the final battle of that war was fought on Palmito Hill in Texas in May 1865, the full might of Lincoln's signature languished in the embattled South. On June 19, 1865, one month after the battle ended and more than two months after the formal surrender of the Confederacy, General Gordon Granger marched into Galveston and proclaimed the authority of the United States over Texas. In so doing, Granger declared all acts of the Confederacy null and void and declared that slaves were henceforth free.
For over one hundred thirty-nine years, African Americans have commemorated Granger's arrival in Galveston as "Juneteenth" or "Emancipation Day”. The Voice and its partners proudly continue this tradition, considering June 19 not only a festive occasion, but also an important venue for learning and networking.
Please join us for JUNETEENTH FESTIVAL 2008 to honor African Americans and their contributions and achievements in world history. Festivities get underway June 6 at 5:30 pm with the VIP kickoff reception, honoring Colorado African American artists and festivals partners. The festival continues on June 14 with an outdoor festival with job fair, food, entertainment and exhibits, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., the Juneteenth Freedom Awards Dinner from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and finally the event conclude with African American MARKETPLACE from noon to 4:00 pm.
For additional information to support Partnerships: Working to reduce barriers to economic opportunity and improve social conditions, please call the Voice at 719.528.1954.
