Juneteenth is now a National Holiday, and The Empowerment Zone” is celebrating. In today’s episode Ramona provides a brief overview of the history of Juneteenth. Afterwards, she has a lively and engaging conversation with her family about the history and significance of Juneteenth. Natives of Texas, the family has lived in the state for generations, so Juneteenth has always been a part of their family experience and tradition. In this multi-generational conversation, family members of three generations talk about their fondest memories of Juneteenth and what the National Holiday means to them. Guests include Ramona’s 96-year-old grandmother Izora Jones, mother Loretta Houston, and aunt Rita Sibert.

Highlights from our conversation:

• History of Juneteenth in Texas
• How Juneteenth became a state holiday in Texas and a national holiday in the US
• Mexia, Texas
• Limestone County
• Comanche Crossing and Booker T. Washington Park, Mexia Texas
• Deaths of teenagers Carl Baker, Steve Booker and Anthony Freeman
• Juneteenth celebrations in Texas
• Martin Luther King, Jr. and the Poor People’s Campaign and March
• Family memories of Juneteenth