“On June 19, 1865, federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas to enforce President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation and free the estimated 250,000 enslaved people across the state. Today and tomorrow, we will recognize Juneteenth as a landmark turning point in our nation’s history.
“Just as the path towards the liberation of African Americans was long and arduous, the work to make our union more equal, just, and fair for all people continues. Still, 156 years later after enslaved people were emancipated in Galveston, African Americans continue to face systemic injustices and biases throughout our society and economy.
“In acknowledging and confronting this painful reality, President Biden and Vice President Harris have launched a whole-of-government effort to dismantle these barriers, while investing in our communities to deliver justice, opportunity, and prosperity. USTR is committed to doing our part by bringing diverse perspectives to the table and creating inclusive trade policy that advances the interests of all workers to realize greater economic equity and equality.”
###
