One man says his father was born into slavery. Here’s what Juneteenth means to his family.

Cornelius Bell, 67, grew up in a small town in Mississippi. His father, George Bell, was born into slavery in 1865, just months before the 13th Amendment abolished slavery. This fact has deeply shaped Cornelius's understanding of Juneteenth, the annual holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. For him, Juneteenth is a reminder of the resilience and strength of his ancestors who survived unimaginable hardship. It also serves as a call to action, urging him and others to continue the fight for racial justice and equality. Cornelius believes that his family's story is not unique. He believes that everyone has a story that can contribute to the understanding of American history and the struggle for freedom and equality. He shares his story to inspire others to learn about the past and fight for a better future. He believes that Juneteenth should not just be a day of celebration, but a day of reflection, remembering the past and committing to creating a more just future.

Summary

"Cornelius Bell's personal story highlights the lasting impact of slavery and the importance of remembering and learning from history. Juneteenth serves as a reminder of the resilience of Black Americans and the ongoing fight for racial justice and equality. It encourages individuals to reflect on the past and contribute to building a better future for all."