The Emancipation Proclamation, an executive order issued by President Abraham Lincoln that abolished slavery, became effective on January 1, 1863. This information was not relayed to all the slaves, especially those in Texas. The State of Texas refused to adhere to the Emancipation Proclamation. It was not until June 19, 1865 that all slaves in the United States were set free. On that date, Union Army General Gordon Granger stood on a balcony in Galveston, TX and announced the total emancipation of slaves. Upon being notified of their release, former slaves celebrated. The celebrations continued to occur each year on June 19th. Years after the initial celebration in 1865, the name Juneteenth was applied and is used until this very day. Rho Xi Chapter is committed to preserving Black Heritage, providing scholarships and performing community service for the residents of Brazoria County and serves as a member of the Brazoria County Juneteenth Celebration Committee (BCJCC). The BCJCC plans for the annual Juneteenth celebration activities in Brazoria County during the month of June. On June 19, 2017 the Juneteenth Celebration commenced with a parade that ended at Bates Park in Angleton, TX. Local step teams, praise dancers and musicians provided entertainment for this joyous occasion. There was an abundant amount of activities for attendees and booths that included community service, food, health screenings and voter registration. The highlight of the event was the crowning of Mr. Juneteenth. The contestant that raises the largest amount of funds is crowned the winner. Rho Xi’s Mr. Juneteenth contestant, Mr. Mykre Watson, was crowned Mr. Juneteenth 2017 as the Brothers helped their young contestant raise over $5,000. During the Juneteenth Celebration, the City of Angleton presented the Brothers of Rho Xi Chapter with a proclamation for their superior service to the children and families of the community. In addition to helping organize the annual event, Brothers donated $5,000, assisted with judging the floats in the parade and other various activities throughout the day.
