Jun 11, 2025
Graphic Flyer for COM’s Juneteenth Celebration
Graphic Flyer for COM’s Juneteenth Celebration Being Held Tuesday, June 17 at 12:30 p.m. in the COM Conference Center.

College of the Mainland (COM) invites the community to its annual Juneteenth Celebration happening on Tuesday, June 17 at 12:30 p.m. in the COM Conference Center. This year’s theme, “Salute the Soldiers”, honors the African American troops who arrived in Galveston and played a vital role in securing the freedom of newly emancipated slaves.

Guest speaker Charity Holland, a Prairie View A&M University graduate and artist, will speak on the pivotal role African American soldiers played in Juneteenth. Accompanying her presentation will be a mixed-media historical exhibit honoring African American military members, inspired by her father’s service.

“This history is important,” Holland said. “The soldiers who marched into Galveston weren’t just delivering news—they were delivering freedom.”

Juneteenth commemorates the date in 1865 when Union Gen. Gordon Granger arrived with his troops at Galveston Island on June 19 and read President Lincoln's proclamation, freeing the state's 200,000 slaves. The proclamation had originally taken effect on Jan. 1, 1863, but word did not reach Texas until two months after Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee surrendered to Union Gen. Ulysses S. Grant, and more than two years after the proclamation was issued, according to The Handbook of Texas Online.

The event will feature compelling speakers, captivating music and delectable free food, all aimed at educating and inspiring attendees while celebrating the enduring legacy of African American culture and contributions to the nation’s history.

COM will be closed Thursday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth.