The Long Arc of Liberty: Juneteenth Through the Archives
*The event has already taken place on this date: Wed, 06/17/2026
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The day opens with freedom songs that set the emotional stage before launching into an electrifying conversation led by Dr. Albert S. Broussard, Cornerstone Faculty Fellow and Professor of History at Texas A&M University. Dr. Broussard has authored many books such as Black San Francisco: The Struggle for Racial Equality in the West, 1900–1954; American History: The Early Years to 1877 (with Donald A. Ritchie); African American Odyssey: The Stewarts, 1853–1963; and The American Vision (with Joyce Appleby, Alan Brinkley, James M. McPherson, and Donald A. Ritchie). Dr. Broussard brings unmatched expertise to the discussion of the Emancipation Proclamation, General Order No. 3, and the evolving meaning of American freedom. His recent work exploring African American civil rights dialogues in Hawai‘i adds a fresh, global dimension to the conversation, making this session a rare opportunity for young audiences to learn from one of the nation’s leading historians.
From there, the energy only builds. Guests will experience the vibrant storytelling of Toni Simmons, step into the world of Grampa Wendell as he reveals artifacts from the National Archives, and close the morning with a moving video tribute to Texas music legend Michael “5000” Watts, whose passion for community uplift and student literacy continues to inspire this program after his sudden passing this winter. The afternoon shifts into full celebration mode with lunch, games, and outdoor activities that bring families together in joy and reflection. This year’s Juneteenth program is more than an event. This year we hope that Juneteenth is a living, breathing reminder that freedom’s journey is long, powerful, and still unfolding.
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