What are your thoughts on Trump saying they re-scheduled the Tulsa Oklahoma MAGA rally originally set for Juneteenth—the day commemorating the end of slavery in the United States?

Clearly, Donald Trump showed his complete lack of understanding of the significance of Juneteenth, a pivotal day in American history that marks the end of slavery in Texas.

To be fair, Trump, hailing from New York, may not have been fully aware of how Juneteenth is observed primarily in Texas and surrounding states. However, his ignorance and subsequent commentary reveal a deeper issue regarding the importance and recognition of this holiday.

Understanding Juneteenth

June 19, 1865, represents the formal end of slavery in Texas, not all states. While the Emancipation Proclamation was issued in 1863 and Confederate forces surrendered in April 1865, many enslaved individuals did not gain their freedom until the arrival of Union soldiers who formally declared and enforced emancipation on June 19, known as Juneteenth.

The Significance of Juneteenth

Juneteenth is celebrated by people of all backgrounds, recognizing the Emancipation of African slaves from bondage. It is especially meaningful for Republicans who were instrumental in the struggle for freedom, but it also serves as a reminder of the long and difficult journey towards equality. Democrats, too, would benefit from a deeper understanding of their party’s history and how it has influenced policies and practices that have affected marginalized communities.

President Trump’s Role

President Trump, in his attempt to politicize the day, showed a lack of sophistication in choosing a date for his rally. It is possible that he was unaware of the significance of the holiday, or he may have seen it as an opportune date for a political event. Regardless, the decision to re-schedule the rally demonstrates a misunderstanding of the sentiment and meaning behind Juneteenth.

Public Reaction and Media Commentary

The decision to reschedule the rally has been met with mixed reactions. Some criticize it as a politically-driven move, while others see it as a way to respect a significant historical moment. The media, in particular, has been quick to portray any event with the President as a potential vector for the spread of COVID-19, regardless of the day it falls on.

Is Rescheduling a Good Idea?

Renaming the rally as such could be seen as a positive step, allowing the observance of Juneteenth to proceed without interruption. It is a chance for the President to show respect for a historical event that is not always fully appreciated by all segments of the population. The initial choice of the date, while convenient, might not have been the best choice, and the re-scheduling could be viewed as a correction.

It is essential to remember that Juneteenth is a day of celebration and reflection, marking a significant step in the journey towards freedom and equality. There is no shortage of events or media coverage that might have suited a political rally, and the choice to strategically pick this particular day for this purpose reflects a misunderstanding of the importance and significance of the holiday.