Los Angeles, CA (Tuesday, June 16, 2026) – Today, the Los Angeles Unified Board of Education approved the recognition of June 19 as Juneteenth and noting its profound significance As the United States marks its 250th anniversary in 2026. Juneteenth provides a unique and profound obligation to reflect on the complete story of our nation—its triumphs, its struggles, and its ongoing journey toward liberty and justice. Juneteenth marks the true dawn of emancipation for enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. It represents a pivotal moment when the reality of freedom began to catch up with the promise of our founding documents.
The District affirms its commitment to providing educational tools and resources to students that elevating the values and contributions of Black history as American History. Additionally, this recognition underscores the full and complete teaching of history and the importance of culturally responsive instruction within our curriculum.
The resolution was authored by Board Member Sherlett Hendy Newbill and co-sponsored by Board President Scott Schmerelson, Board Vice President Dr. Rocio Rivas, Board Members Nick Melvoin, Karla Griego, Kelly Gonez and Tanya Ortiz Franklin.
“By passing this resolution, Los Angeles Unified is reaffirming its commitment to an honest, inclusive, and culturally responsive education, said Board Member Sherlett Hendy Newbill. We owe it to our remarkably diverse student body to provide them with the historical depth and tools they need to understand our past, celebrate our progress, and actively shape a more just and perfect union."
“Juneteenth reminds us that freedom in this country has never been automatic, it has been fought for,” Acting Superintendent Andrés E. Chait said. “As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States, we have a responsibility to ensure our students understand the full story of our nation’s history; the triumphs and the truths. Advancing historical education is not just about looking back, it is about preparing our students to think critically, engage thoughtfully, and help build a more just and inclusive future.”
BOARD OF EDUCATION MEMBER QUOTES
Board President Scott M. Schmerelson
“Juneteenth is really special and marks a reflection for us as a nation on how far we have come to finally realize freedom in this country,” said LAUSD Board President Scott M. Schmerelson. “However, I will acknowledge that we still have much work to do, as the rise of racism and hate is spreading once more in this country. This resolution is a symbol in the fight against those ideologies, and I am determined to see the spirit of Juneteenth celebrated all over LAUSD.”
Board Vice President Dr. Rocío Rivas
"Juneteenth reminds us that freedom has always required courage, collective action, and an unwavering commitment to justice," said Board Vice President Dr. Rocío Rivas. "As we approach the 250th anniversary of our nation, we have a responsibility to ensure that students learn a complete and honest history, one that recognizes both the progress we have made and the struggles that continue today."
Board Member Nick Melvoin
"Juneteenth is both a celebration of freedom and a reminder of the struggle, sacrifice, and perseverance that has always been inherent to creating a more perfect union, said Board Member Nick Melvoin. As we prepare to mark America's 250th anniversary, we must ensure that students understand the full, unvarnished truth of our country's history. A strong civic education begins with an honest picture of the past, and today, we reaffirm our commitment to that goal."
Board Member Karla Griego
"Commemorating Juneteenth means remembering not only the painful history of slavery in the United States, but also the courageous fight for liberation. LAUSD must continue educating our students about the injustices and struggles the African American community has faced and continues to face in this country, while also honoring the resilience and strength of those who fought tirelessly to secure the freedom of all people,” said Board Member Karla Griego.
Board Member Kelly Gonez
"As we reflect on the last 250 years of our nation’s history, it's important we uplift the full, true narrative of the American story, including the celebration of Juneteenth, because we can’t celebrate the ideals of liberty and democracy without examining all the struggles and resilience that shaped them.”
Board Member Tanya Ortiz Franklin
"As we commemorate Juneteenth and recognize the 250th anniversary of our nation, we honor the enduring contributions of Black Americans whose courage, leadership, and resilience have helped shape a stronger, more just America, said Board Member Tanya Ortiz Franklin. Juneteenth invites us to celebrate resilience, acknowledge the progress we have made, and inspire future generations through a fuller understanding of the American story.”
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