How Did Juneteenth Get Its Name?

 

Juneteeth statement tees

Juneteenth isn’t just a date; it’s a reckoning. A moment that echoes through generations as a symbol of strength, survival, and the relentless pursuit of true freedom. It marks a time when the news of emancipation finally reached enslaved people in Texas long after it had become law, and they were faced with a haunting question: “Now what?”

That question wasn’t answered easily. Even after learning of their freedom, many were pulled into sharecropping, debt peonage, and other oppressive systems that carried slavery’s shadow for decades. So Juneteenth isn’t about freedom neatly won; it’s about the resilience it took to keep going when freedom was murky, conditional, and delayed. 

This day stands as a testament to Black endurance, cultural pride, and the ongoing struggle for justice. It’s not just about what was promised, it’s about how far we’ve come and how hard we’ve fought to get here

Juneteenth: Our Freedom, Our Fashion, Our Statement

At Smith’s Tees, we believe that fashion can be revolutionary. That a t-shirt can tell a story, start a conversation, and carry the weight of generations. This Juneteenth, we invite you to wear your pride. Make a statement. And celebrate our shared history with power and purpose.

The Origins of Juneteenth

A Delayed Freedom, Not a Denied One

The Emancipation Proclamation was issued on January 1, 1863, but due to the Confederate rebellion and the slow spread of information (and resistance from slaveholders), news of emancipation didn’t reach enslaved people in Texas until June 19, 1865. That’s 900+ days of stolen freedom.

General Granger’s Order No. 3 declared:

“The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free.”

It was a moment of shock, elation, and new beginnings. Families were reunited. Spirituals were sung. Dreams were reborn. And in the years following, African American communities across Texas began celebrating Juneteenth as an annual tradition—a sacred time to honor freedom, family, and faith.

How to Celebrate Juneteenth

Juneteenth is more than a history lesson it’s a living, breathing celebration. Here are powerful ways to observe the day:

  • Support Black-owned businesses like Smith’s Tees

  • Attend local events like parades, festivals, and commemorations

  • Host a cookout with traditional dishes like barbecue, red soda, and soul food

  • Share stories of your family’s history and cultural roots

  • Wear your pride with fashion that honors your identity and heritage

At Smith’s Tees, we offer more than clothing we offer statements. Shirts that spark change, affirm identity, and celebrate the journey. Here’s how our signature Juneteenth collection turns fabric into freedom:

Black Is Beautiful statement tees

Black Is Beautiful: A Timeless Truth

Emerging during the 1960s Civil Rights Movement, the phrase “Black is Beautiful” was a radical act of resistance. It pushed back against Eurocentric beauty standards and declared, unapologetically, that Black skin, Black hair, Black culture, and Black identity are worthy of love, pride, and celebration.

When you wear our Black Is Beautiful Tee, you aren’t just wearing a trend you’re wearing a legacy. A reminder that:

Our melanin is magic.

Our beauty is boundless.

Our worth is inherent.

This shirt is a tribute to your ancestors and a gift to future generations. Wear it loud. Wear it proudly.

For the Culture: Celebrating Our Heritage

"For the Culture" isn’t a trend, it’s a way of life.

From music and art to fashion and language, Black culture continues to shape and influence the world. Our For the Culture Tee is a salute to that influence. A badge of honor for those who carry the richness of their roots in everything they do.

Wear it while:

  • Dancing at your local Juneteenth block party
  • Hosting a family reunion cookout
  • Sharing wisdom with the next generation

This tee is about honoring where we came from and owning where we’re headed. Because culture isn’t just what we create it’s what we protect and pass on.

Ode to the 92%: Rest Is Revolutionary  

Ode to the 92% statement tees

92% of Black women voted in favor of justice, equity, and progress in recent U.S. elections. That number represents more than political participation it represents generational leadership, unwavering strength, and a legacy of carrying the weight of our communities.

The Ode to the 92% Tee is a moment to exhale.

To rest.

To say: We’ve done the work. Now let us breathe.

This shirt is a tribute to the grandmothers, aunties, sisters, and daughters who always show up. This Juneteenth, wear it to reclaim your rest and your power.

Peace: Positive Energy Attracts Constant Elevation

Peace is not the absence of conflict it’s the presence of purpose. Our Peace Tee is more than a calming mantra. It’s a mission.

On Juneteenth, we elevate.

We center joy.

We breathe in healing and breathe out resistance.

This tee is a reminder to protect your energy, guard your joy, and walk boldly in peace because your peace is your protest.

Peace: Positive Energy statement tees

Statement T-Shirts: More Than Just Apparel

At Smith’s Tees, we believe a shirt can shift the room.

Our tees aren’t just clothing. They are:

  • Declarations of dignity

  • Proclamations of pride

  • Uniforms of Unity

Each design is rooted in history and made for the future. We use fashion to say: We see you. We hear you. We are you.

Whether you’re marching, gathering, dancing, or resting our shirts walk with you.

Celebrate Juneteenth with Purpose and Pride

As you plan your Juneteenth celebration, we invite you to go deeper. Reflect on the journey. Amplify the message. And let what you wear speak volumes.

🖤 Support Black-owned.
🖤 Show up in style.
🖤 Make a statement that matters.

This Juneteenth, remember:

  • Black is beautiful.
  • Our stories are sacred.
  • Our fashion is powerful.
  • And our freedom is forever.

Shop the Juneteenth Statement Collection by Smith’s Tees

Each tee in our collection is:

  • Designed & Assembled in the USA
  • 100% Premium Cotton
  • Short Sleeved & Crew Neck
  • Available in Extended Sizes

Featured Tees:

🖤 Black is Beautiful Tee
🖤 For the Culture Tee
🖤 Ode to the 92% Tee
🖤 Peace Tee

Final Word: Wear Your Truth

Freedom is not a costume. It’s a commitment.
Fashion is not just style. It’s substance.

This Juneteenth, let your wardrobe reflect your soul. Let your tee be your truth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is Juneteenth and why is it important?
Juneteenth, a blend of “June” and “nineteenth,” marks the day on June 19, 1865, when Union General Gordon Granger announced in Galveston, Texas, that all enslaved people were free—over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. It is celebrated as the true Independence Day for African Americans [1].

2. How do people typically celebrate Juneteenth?
Celebrations often include parades, cookouts, music, education events, and wearing cultural or statement fashion. It’s a day to honor Black freedom, resilience, and culture [3].

3. Why is fashion important in Juneteenth celebrations?
Fashion is a tool for expression. Statement tees like “Black is Beautiful” or “For the Culture” reflect pride, solidarity, and identity during Juneteenth events.

4. What does "Ode to the 92%" mean?
This phrase pays tribute to the 92% of Black women who voted in support of progress and justice—highlighting how rest, activism, and voice are revolutionary acts.

5. How can I support the Juneteenth movement year-round?
Support Black-owned businesses, educate others, advocate for racial justice, and wear your values—every day, not just on June 19.

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