Black El Paso Voice

All Things Black in El Paso

Juneteenth

2025 State of Black El Paso

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Where We’ve Been, Where We Are, Where We’re Going: The 2025 State of Black El Paso

As communities across the nation reckon with the need for honest civic dialogue and targeted action, El Paso’s Black community continues its path forward—examining where it has been, where it is, and where it is going. On Wednesday, June 19, 2025, at 3:30 PM, the 2nd Annual State of Black El Paso Address will take place at the McCall Neighborhood Center, inviting the public to participate in a town hall rooted in truth, vision, and responsibility.

This year’s theme is not just a reflection—it’s a challenge. Founder Monica Tucker, longtime advocate and voice behind Black El Paso Voice, will deliver a comprehensive review, setting the tone for a deeper discussion on the pressing issues facing Black El Pasoans today.

With an eye on generational responsibility, the event emphasizes civic engagement as a tool to disrupt cycles of neglect. By participating, attendees help lay the groundwork for younger generations to become informed leaders and decision-makers who understand the importance of voting, advocacy, and holding others accountable.

The event will explore four core focus areas:

  • Civic Engagement & Anti-Racism: Addressing low voter turnout, recent racial incidents in schools and public spaces, and the urgent need for Black voices in governance. As Monica Tucker states, “When we know better, we do better—it is our responsibility to secure a seat at the table.”
  • Health, Wellness & Access to Care: Examining mental health stigma, chronic health disparities, and the lack of Black healthcare providers contributing to medical distrust and poor outcomes.
  • Black Youth – In Schools, In the Community, In Life: Focusing on disproportionate discipline, underrepresentation in curricula, and the need for culturally-rooted mentorship and opportunity.
  • Barriers to Black Representation & Success on the Border: Tackling intra-community disconnection, economic exclusion, and the need for Black-led historical education in a time when national narratives are being erased.

In addition, a special presentation by community guest speaker Tom Handy—Army veteran, investor, and civic leader—will center on the importance of wealth building and connecting economic literacy to generational empowerment. 

Dr. Jackeline Biddle Richard, a dynamic force in law, health, and advocacy, will moderate the event and guide discussions toward real-world application.

After the address, the community is invited to engage directly during a Q&A panel with local leaders, including:

  • Curtis Smith – (Retired) Army Veteran, activist, mentor, leader
  • Lucille Samuel – Army Veteran (Retired) Civic leader and Retired EPCSO Exec. Admin Officer
  • Ryan Adams – Army Veteran, civic and Black history advocater, leader, entrepreneur
  • Shonique Tornes – Navy Veteran, women’s leadership advocate, entrepreneur
  • Michael Hall – (Retired) Army Veteran, community leader, and mentor

Admission is $10, and RSVP is required. Attendees can choose to attend the town hall/panel, the offsite reception at 6ixx Lounge (4317 Dyer Street) at 6:00 PM, or both. Proceeds support Black El Paso Voice initiatives, including education, economic empowerment, and business development efforts.

Click here to purchase admission. Tickets at will-call.

In a region where Black voices are often undercounted, this event is more than a report—it’s a call to action. Everyone—Black, allied, young, seasoned, business-minded, and community-focused—is encouraged to attend.

Because if we don’t lead the conversation about our future, someone else will.

Special thanks to MEKALE KNIGHT-VICTOR of First Command for supporting this session.

A Juneteenth to Remember: Black El Paso Voice & Parks and Recreation Bring the Community Together in Celebration of Freedom, Culture, and Unity

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Nations Tobin Park was alive this past weekend with the heartbeat of the community. Black El Paso Voice and the City of El Paso Parks and Recreation Department joined forces for the second time—and third Juneteenth celebration overall—to deliver an unforgettable event full of pride, purpose, and pure joy.

From the first handshake to the last beat of the drum, this Juneteenth celebration was a living portrait of what happens when a community shows up with heart, purpose, and pride.

Families from every corner of the city gathered early, welcomed by friendly volunteers, a sea of smiling faces, and the unmistakable sounds of Black joy—music, laughter, and fellowship. Local vendors lined the walkways, offering a diverse range of items, from delicious food to handmade crafts, books, and resources from several city departments. The heat was no match for the spirit of celebration—and with the help of Kona Ice and Heavenly Popsicle, everyone stayed refreshed.

At the heart of the program was a powerful representation. El Paso’s own Mayor Renard Johnson and City Manager Dionne Mack, the city’s top two officials, were present and deeply engaged, offering words that inspired hope and pride. Their presence, as Black leaders in the highest seats of city government, did not go unnoticed—especially by the youth.

The spoken word from Danesha Shipman reached deep, reminding attendees of the unshakeable strength of our ancestors and the road still ahead. 2024 BEP Voice Youth of the Year, Montraviah Legg, moved the audience with a passionate recital of Maya Angelou’s “Still I Rise,” embodying grace, confidence, and promise.

Musical and artistic performances from Alissa Saenz, The AJM Collective, Dendre Wright, the Jamal Streeter Band, and 2025 El Paso Black Hall of Fame Inductee Billy Townes made the stage a sacred space. Line dancing led by Stephanie D. Allen and the StepD & Company team—complete with community favorite Fletcher hyping the crowd—had folks of all ages on their feet.

“This year’s Juneteenth celebration showed what can happen when genuine community leaders and city leadership unite with a common goal,” said Monica Tucker, founder of Black El Paso Voice. “I am so overwhelmed by the love and support from the community, especially El Paso Parks and Recreation. Juneteenth is every day. We must remember our freedoms.”

The event also served as a vital connection point. More than 40 participating organizations and vendors shared resources and support—from public health services and immunizations to book giveaways and business outreach. The Holy Royal Arch Masons, Chapter No. 90, returned with their signature generosity—serving free food and collecting books for the community.

Special thanks to Dr. Jackeline Biddle Richard, who offered resources on domestic violence prevention and supported the distribution of the Juneteenth Journal, and to elder Anna M. Harris-Howell, whose presence and thoughtful care (including bringing ice!) reminded us all of the power of community wisdom.

As the evening drew to a close, it was clear that this was more than an event—it was a movement rooted in history, joy, and purpose.

Thank you to El Paso. Thank you to the volunteers. And thank you to the ancestors. Until June 13-20, 2026—we look forward to seeing you again.

 

Photo: Duwan Mason
Photo: Duwan Mason

Removing the Rug: Addressing Community Challenges Head-On

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This week, we will share the videos of each speaker from the State of Black El Paso, which took place on Juneteenth, 2024.

We have removed the rug. We’ve burned it.

Everyone who participated shared their thoughts and information on how to grow better together. Our community can be more inclusive and less degrading if we have hard conversations followed by active, empowering solutions. Community building cannot take place without first tearing down the walls that divide us.

Truth is everything.

Without acknowledging the causes of destruction, how can you ensure a more positive future? From civil rights to socioeconomic standing, a community is only as strong as its leaders. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X, Fannie Lou Hamer, and others fought with words. If that’s not you, have a seat, but don’t try to stop what God is doing, and that is the very thing you prayed for – a more diverse and forward-moving El Paso.

Where Are Black Leaders in the Community?
Despite what you’ve heard, we are here. A leader isn’t just someone who holds a position within a community, company, or organization. A leader unapologetically takes their role as a citizen to do what’s right for the greater good.

A leader uses their voice and is not silenced or afraid of the faces of those who continue to use negativity to stunt our growth. Despite your socioeconomic status, if you’re in any part of the community/society that believes racism doesn’t exist on the border, that the Black community is just fine, and that you have no issues, and believe that some of us are “doing too much” to actualize unity… stay over there, especially if you are Black identifying. The hypocrisy is if you have those beliefs yet work in fields that combat ageism, classism, elitism, racism, sexism, etc.

Stay tuned this week as you hear the words from those who, like myself, desire positive community growth and change. We share collective goals of improving and being a part of the solution instead of adding to the problems.

I’m not going to be in El Paso forever. Still, like I have previously stated: “If my children choose to remain here, I want them to know I did all that I could to try to bridge the divide and bring us closer to inclusion, representation, and Black self-empowerment and pride…unashamedly… while connecting with various other cultures on the border.” 

So, no more sweeping stuff under the rug. Let’s talk about it, but only for a short time. We’re adults – it doesn’t take long to screw in a light bulb.

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Juneteenth: Why is Texas Significant?

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Other states did not abolish slavery until after 1863, why is Texas so important?

Source: Library of Congress, Wikimedia Commons, QuartierLatin1968, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Source: Library of Congress, Wikimedia Commons, QuartierLatin1968, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

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It’s counterproductive to argue over whether Texas was indeed the last Confederate state to abolish slavery. Such debates miss the more significant point and detract from the real significance of Juneteenth and the emancipation process.

Texas was the last state in the Confederacy to enforce emancipation. The news of emancipation reached Texas on June 19, 1865, when Union Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston and issued General Order No. 3, declaring all enslaved people in Texas free. This event is commemorated as Juneteenth.

However, it is important to note that while Texas was the last Confederate state to enforce emancipation, slavery continued to exist in some Union states until the ratification of the 13th Amendment in December 1865. States like Delaware and Kentucky still had legal slavery until then.

The end of slavery was a complex, gradual process that unfolded differently across various states and regions. What’s most important is recognizing the profound impact of emancipation, the struggles of enslaved people, and the ongoing fight for equality. Rather than fixating on which state was “last,” we should focus on understanding the full historical context, honoring those who endured slavery, and addressing the lasting effects of this institution on U.S. American society.

Why Are People Upset About Juneteenth Being Associated with Texas As Opposed to Other States? People may be upset about the official emancipation date being June 19th for several reasons:

  1. Historical Complexity: Emancipation did not occur uniformly across the United States. While June 19, 1865, marks the day Union General Gordon Granger arrived to announce and enforce the end of slavery in Texas, other states and regions had different timelines for emancipation. For example, the Emancipation Proclamation was issued on January 1, 1863, and some states had already abolished slavery before June 19, 1865. This complexity can pose challenges in determining a specific date that marks the end of slavery.
  2. Political and Social Context: Juneteenth’s recognition as a federal holiday has occurred in a politically and socially charged environment. Some people view the focus on Juneteenth as part of a broader cultural and political discourse on racial injustices and the history of slavery in the United States. This has led to debates about how American history is taught and commemorated, with some conservative groups opposing the emphasis on structural racism and the long Black freedom struggle.
  3. Commercialization Concerns: As Juneteenth gains broader recognition, there has been a rise in commercialization, with retailers and other entities capitalizing on the holiday. This commercialization can sometimes overshadow the historical and cultural significance of the day, leading to concerns that the true meaning of Juneteenth is being diluted.
  4. Alternative Emancipation Dates: Different communities have historically celebrated emancipation on various dates, depending on when they received the news of freedom. For instance, some areas in Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas, and Oklahoma might celebrate emancipation on dates in July or August. This variation can lead to a sense that June 19th does not fully capture the diverse experiences of emancipation across the country.
  5. Historical Narratives: The narrative that the news of emancipation “traveled slowly” to Texas is sometimes seen as oversimplifying reality. In truth, the delay was more about the slow movement of power and the resistance of slaveholders to relinquish control. This nuanced understanding can lead to frustration with how history is presented and commemorated.

Overall, while Juneteenth is a significant and symbolic date marking the end of slavery in Texas, the broader historical context and contemporary political and social dynamics contribute to the mixed reactions regarding its official recognition as the primary date of emancipation.

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While other border states and Union-controlled areas also experienced delayed emancipation, Texas’ situation is particularly notable due to various factors. The combination of its large slave population, geographical isolation, and the dramatic moment of General Granger’s announcement on June 19, 1865, has made Texas’ emancipation story a powerful symbol in the narrative of American freedom.

Here’s an overview of the situation:

  1. Border States: The Emancipation Proclamation did not apply to the remaining border states in the Union. Slavery remained legal in these states until the ratification of the 13th Amendment in 1865:
  • Maryland (abolished slavery in 1864)
  • Delaware
  • Kentucky
  • Missouri
  1. Union-controlled areas: The proclamation exempted parts of the Confederacy already under Union control. This included:
  • 48 counties of West Virginia
  • Several counties in Virginia
  • Specific parishes in Louisiana, including New Orleans
  1. Tennessee: While not explicitly mentioned in the search results, Tennessee was also not covered by the Emancipation Proclamation due to its status as a Union-occupied Confederate state.

Why is Texas More Widely Discussed? Texas’ emancipation is more widely discussed and commemorated for several reasons:

  1. Late notification: Texas was geographically isolated from the rest of the Confederacy, which led to a significant delay in the announcement of emancipation. Enslaved people in Texas were officially informed of their freedom on June 19, 1865, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.
  2. Juneteenth: This delay led to the celebration of Juneteenth (June 19th), a widely recognized commemoration of emancipation across the United States.
  3. Symbolic significance: Texas was the last Confederate state to have the proclamation announced, making it a symbol of the end of slavery in the former Confederacy.
  4. Cultural impact: Texas’ late emancipation story has been widely shared and has become an important part of African American cultural heritage.

It’s important to note that while Texas’ emancipation was more widely discussed, the process of ending slavery was complex and varied across different states and regions. The 13th Amendment, ratified in December 1865, was ultimately necessary to legally abolish slavery throughout the entire United States.

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What influenced Texas’ emancipation timeline?

The following factors combined created a unique emancipation timeline in Texas. The last enslaved people in the United States gained their freedom over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. This delay and the subsequent celebration of freedom on June 19th led to the creation of Juneteenth as a distinct and significant commemoration of emancipation.

  1. Geographical isolation: Texas’s location at the far western edge of the Confederacy made it difficult for news and Union forces to reach the state quickly. This isolation contributed to the delayed announcement of emancipation.
  2. Confederate stronghold: Texas remained under Confederate control throughout most of the Civil War, which meant that the Emancipation Proclamation could not be enforced there until Union troops arrived.
  3. Continued slavery: Due to its distance from major battlefields, Texas became a haven for slaveholders from other Confederate states. By the end of the war, an estimated 250,000 enslaved people remained in Texas, outside the reach of the Emancipation Proclamation.
  4. Arrival of Union troops: The turning point came on June 19, 1865, when approximately 2,000 Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas. June 19th marked the official announcement of freedom for enslaved people in Texas.
  5. General Order No. 3: On June 19, 1865, Union Major General Gordon Granger issued General Order No. 3 in Galveston, which enforced the Emancipation Proclamation in Texas. This order was disseminated through newspapers and word of mouth across the state.
  6. Resistance to change: Some enslavers in Texas resisted the order and delayed informing their enslaved workers of their freedom, sometimes waiting until after the harvest season to make the announcement.

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How did the news of emancipation spread throughout Texas after the announcement and enforcement? It’s important to note that the spread of this information was not immediate or uniform. Some enslavers resisted the order and delayed informing their enslaved workers, sometimes waiting until after the harvest season. Additionally, Texas’s vast size and geographical isolation contributed to the slow spread of information in some areas.

The process of spreading the news of emancipation throughout Texas was complex and took time. Some formerly enslaved people did not learn of their freedom for months or even years after Granger’s announcement in Galveston.

After June 19, 1865, the news of emancipation spread throughout Texas through several channels:

  1. Union troops: Approximately 2,000 Union soldiers, including some United States Colored Troops, marched through Texas, spreading the news of emancipation. These troops played a crucial role in disseminating the information to remote areas.
  2. General Order No. 3: Union Major General Gordon Granger issued General Order No. 3 in Galveston, officially announcing and enforcing the Emancipation Proclamation in Texas. This order was then distributed across the state.
  3. Newspapers: The news of emancipation was published in local newspapers, helping to spread the information to literate populations and those with access to news sources.
  4. Word of mouth: As formerly enslaved people received the news, they shared it with others, spreading information across communities.
  5. The Freedmen’s Bureau, a key player in the post-emancipation era, promoted June 19th as a day of celebration for African Americans. Their active efforts significantly contributed to the widespread awareness of emancipation.
  6. Church services: Many preachers shared the news of freedom with their congregations during church services.
  7. Public readings: In some areas, ceremonial readings of the Emancipation Proclamation were held to inform people of their newfound freedom.

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How has Juneteenth impacted modern civil rights movements? Juneteenth has had a significant impact on modern civil rights movements in several ways:

  1. Renewed focus on racial justice: The increased recognition of Juneteenth, significantly since 2020, has helped refocus national attention on ongoing racial inequalities and the continued struggle for civil rights.
  2. Connection to contemporary movements: Juneteenth has become linked to modern civil rights efforts like Black Lives Matter. The holiday reminds us that the ongoing fight for equality connects historical struggles to present-day activism.
  3. Educational platform: Juneteenth provides an opportunity to educate people about African American history and the lasting impacts of slavery, which informs and motivates current civil rights efforts.
  4. Catalyst for action: The recognition of Juneteenth has inspired more people to engage in civil rights activism and advocacy. For example, the Poor People’s Campaign held a Juneteenth Solidarity Day in 1968, helping to revitalize interest in the holiday.
  5. Institutional change: The federal recognition of Juneteenth has prompted organizations and institutions to examine their roles in perpetuating systemic racism and to take steps toward greater inclusivity and equity.
  6. Symbol of ongoing struggle: While Juneteenth celebrates emancipation, it also reminds us that full equality has not yet been achieved, motivating continued efforts in the civil rights movement.
  7. Community empowerment: Juneteenth celebrations often include discussions about current civil rights issues and strategies for community action, fostering grassroots organizing and empowerment.

Juneteenth has become both a celebration of progress and a call to action for modern civil rights movements, linking historical struggles with contemporary efforts to achieve full equality and justice for African Americans and other marginalized communities.

Let’s continue to celebrate and educate.

Juneteenth Flag Raising Ceremony Celebrated in El Paso

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El Paso, TX – June 8, 2024

Saturday at 8 a.m., the Juneteenth Flag Raising Ceremony took place at the historic McCall Neighborhood Center, marking a significant moment for the El Paso community. Juneteenth El Paso and Black El Paso Voice organized the event, bringing together residents to honor this pivotal day in American history.

The ceremony commenced with the El Paso Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club hoisting the Juneteenth flag alongside the U.S. flag, accompanied by the stirring sounds of the reveille. This symbolic act underscored the unity and progress represented by the Juneteenth holiday, commemorating enslaved Black Americans’ emancipation in the United States.

Monica, the founder of Black El Paso Voice, addressed the attendees, sharing the profound significance of the Juneteenth flag. She emphasized the importance of the flag’s design and the official branding, which was hard-won and represents the challenges and achievements of the Black community. Monica’s words inspired the community to embrace and utilize this powerful symbol in their celebrations and commemorations, filling them with a sense of pride and inspiration.

Following her speech, local singer Abeni Janae sang a rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” often called the Black National Anthem. Her performance resonated with the crowd, adding a poignant and uplifting note to the ceremony.

The Juneteenth Flag Raising Ceremony at the McCall Neighborhood Center celebrated freedom and heritage and fostered a sense of community and collective memory. As El Paso moves forward, events like these serve as essential reminders of the significance of unity, recognition, and celebration of diverse histories.

The community is invited tothe city’s official celebration, hosted by Black El Paso Voice and the City of El Paso, Texas, on Saturday, June 15, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

Juneteenth: The Meaning of the Flag

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The Juneteenth flag was created in 1997 by activist Ben Haith aka Boston Ben, founder of the National Juneteenth Celebration Foundation (NJCF). Boston-based illustrator Lisa Jeanne Graf brought Haith’s vision to life. Also contributing were Verlene Hines, Azim, and Eliot Design. The Juneteenth flag was revised in 2000 to include “June 19, 1865,” the day enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, were freed.

The Juneteenth flag is a powerful symbol of freedom and justice for Black Americans, and it has become a symbol of Black emancipation in the United States of North America, the journey our ancestors have taken, and the continuous journey we are taking. We have work to do.

ABOUT THE COLORS: WE ARE FREE U.S. AMERICANS

Mr. Haith was intentional about every aspect of the creation.

  • The arc on the Juneteenth flag represents a new horizon, meaning fresh opportunities and promising futures for Black Americans.
  • The star represents Texas – Juneteenth started in Galveston. It represents the freedom of Black Americans in all 50 states.
  • The burst (zig-zag shape surrounding the star) represents Black Americans’ journey to achieve freedom. Inspired by a nova, the burst symbol represents the term astronomers use to mean a new star – in essence, a new beginning.
  • The colors of the flag represent the United States of America. The flag is a reminder that enslaved people and the descendants of enslaved people were AND ARE Americans. Those colors are a testament that Americans are committed to striving for actualization of liberty and justice for all.

BEP Voice & The City of El Paso Present: Juneteenth 2024!

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Juneteenth 2024 in El Paso

The City of El Paso and Black El Paso Voice are thrilled to present an unforgettable Juneteenth celebration in 2024! Last year’s event was a huge success, and this year promises to be even more impressive.

Celebrate with the Community!

Join us for a day filled with live entertainment, food, and fun for the whole family. This multicultural event is not just a celebration; it’s a platform for everyone, regardless of age, background, or culture, to come together and enjoy.

Get ready to be entertained by a lineup of incredible live performers, including: 

  • Live DJ spinning the hottest tracks

  • Soulful singers and energetic dancers

  • Games and activities for youth and adults

Exciting prizes will be awarded, and informational and merchandise vendors will be on-site, offering a wide variety of products and services.

Take advantage of this incredible Juneteenth celebration in El Paso! 

Mark your calendars! Prepare for a memorable community, culture, and celebration day.

#Juneteenth2024 #ElPaso #BlackElPasoVoice #CommunityEvent #LiveEntertainment

Vendor, Sponsorship, and Advertising Information: https://epjuneteenth.com

Juneteenth El Paso | 2023 Celebration

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Juneteenth 2023 | June 17 - Nations Tobin Park | Photo: Barb Wilson

While we are gathering the immense amount of highlights from Saturday’s 2023 Juneteenth Celebration, we are truly honored to have been sponsored and supported by sponsors, volunteers, vendors, and supporters.

Thank you to El Paso Parks & Recreation, District 2 City Rep Annello, City of El Paso, Fly Events Promotions,
El Paso HRAM, El Paso Electric, ZTEX Construction, Allstate Insurance, Gecko Bros., FBI El Paso, SAMS Club, Gecko Bros., El Paso Celebration Kool & The Gang Tribute Band, Ashley Johnson, Abeni Janae, Dr. Brenda Russell, Pastor Michael Grady, Tina Smiley-Overton, Brandy Wyche, Fedora Johnson, Shonique Tornes, Curtis Smith, Dianna Williams, Duwan Mason, Barbara Wilson, Sherry Leapheart, Dee Tillman, Sadiya Lucas, Jacqueline Dunn-Moodie, David Wedlock, Vicki Scott, Anna Harris-Howell,  Thank you to everyone stepped in to make this event a true complement to the efforts to increase awareness about the Black experience in the United States of America, and the importance of celebrating Black Freedom.

Juneteenth Freedom Day isn’t a one day observance. Juneteenth is a year-round lived experience that will be celebrated through educating our community about our cultural heritage and the importance of its inclusion in the borderland. 

Humanizing slavery is the purpose. Our ancestors were denied rights that we enjoy today; what we do now directly reflects their resilience. 

Thank you to the El Paso community for coming out to share in a safe, fun-filled experience.

 

Special thanks to El Paso HRAM for their continuous support of Black El Paso Voice and Juneteenth El Paso. Their unwavering dedication to community service is to be emulated.