A Reflective and Meaningful Juneteenth
To the Campus Community:
As we commemorate Juneteenth, we reflect upon a pivotal chapter in our nation's history
and reaffirm Farmingdale State College's unwavering commitment to educational excellence,
opportunity, belonging, and the dignity of every member of our community.
Juneteenth marks June 19, 1865, when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas,
learned of their freedom more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued
the Emancipation Proclamation. This moment serves as a profound reminder that the
pursuit of liberty, justice, and equal opportunity has often been marked by perseverance,
resilience, and the determination of those who sought to transform the promise of
freedom into reality.
The observance of Juneteenth invites us to engage thoughtfully with our history, recognizing
both the progress achieved and the challenges that have shaped the American experience.
It calls upon us to appreciate the contributions of generations whose courage and
sacrifice helped advance the ideals of equality and broaden access to opportunity
for future generations.
Farmingdale State College remains steadfast in its dedication to cultivating a campus
environment where students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends, are afforded the
opportunity to contribute in a community grounded in mutual respect and academic achievement.
The cornerstone of our commitment to inclusive excellence centers on the knowledge
that learning is strengthened when individuals from different backgrounds, experiences,
and perspectives are welcomed, respected, and empowered to succeed.
As we honor Juneteenth, may we take time to reflect on the importance of freedom,
recognize the richness of the diverse communities that comprise our nation, and recommit
ourselves to the principles of equity, opportunity, and belonging that help shape
a more promising future for all.
May you have a meaningful and reflective Juneteenth.
Phillip C. Culver
Chief Diversity Officer and Executive Director for Inclusion
