06/19/2025
On Juneteenth, we commemorate the day in 1865 when the last enslaved Black Americans in Galveston, Texas were informed of their freedom—over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. As we honor Juneteenth, we reflect on the progress that has been made and the work that remains. Juneteenth encourages us not only to remember, but also to come together—celebrating inclusion, honoring achievements, and recognizing the contributions of the Black community.
At Converse, we are reminded of this legacy through the powerful presence of the Marian Anderson statue on our front campus. Sculpted by renowned artist Meredith Bergmann, the bronze monument stands in front of Twichell Auditorium and honors Marian Anderson not only as a groundbreaking contralto singer, but also as a humanitarian and icon of the Civil Rights Movement.
Anderson’s historic performance at the Lincoln Memorial in 1939, after being denied the right to sing at Constitution Hall because of her race, marked a defining moment in the fight against segregation. She was the first Black artist to perform a leading role at the Metropolitan Opera and later served as a delegate to the United Nations, using her voice—literally and symbolically—to advocate for justice and human dignity.
Juneteenth is a time to remember our history, honor the resilience of those who came before us, and recognize the importance of unity and progress. 💜🖤
