“Not all enslaved people were freed instantly. Texas is a large state, and General Granger’s order (and the troops needed to enforce it) was slow to spread. According to historian James Smallwood, many enslavers deliberately suppressed the information until after the harvest, and some beyond that. In July 1867 there were two separate reports of enslaved people being freed, and one report of a Texas horse thief named Alex Simpson, whose enslaved people were only freed after his hanging in 1868.” (Source: https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/501680/12-things-you-might-not-know-about-juneteenth)

Learn more at LLCC’s upcoming Juneteenth activities, including a celebration on June 20, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in A. Lincoln Commons and a book read of “On Juneteenth” by Annette Gordon-Reed. Get more details.

June 17-19 is 217 Black Restaurant Weekend. Now in its third year, the event aims to counter economic disparity within black-owned businesses with fun and interactive solutions that engage, excite and ignite a deeper understanding and appreciation of Springfield’s food culture. LLCC is sponsoring Jerk Shop Go, located in downtown Springfield.