Juneteenth Independence Day Commemoration

Dear Southwestern College Community,

Yesterday, June 17, 2021, history was made when President Joe Biden signed a bill recognizing Juneteenth National Independence Day as a federal holiday. As a result of this decision, offices and services across the nation are closed today to commemorate the approximate day news was brought to the South that informed enslaved African Americans of their emancipation (more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation declared their freedom).

Given that Southwestern College is closed on Fridays during the summer months, we will observe this important holiday on Monday, June 21, 2021. Any employee who has taken this day off will be credited back their personal vacation day since this will be a college holiday.

As consistent with all federal holidays, Southwestern College District services, operations, and departments will be closed and classes will not be held in observance of Juneteenth National Independence Day. Classes and services will resume on Tuesday, June 22, 2021.

As an educational institution that centers on equity, inclusion, and anti-racism, we must recognize that systemic and structural changes are still needed to realize the freedom Juneteenth commemorates. It is our responsibility to continue teaching the truth of our nation’s history and teach future generations to critically examine the historical significance of African Americans and their contributions to our nation.

I encourage all of us to take time this weekend to reflect and honor the generations of African Americans who were forced into free labor, built many of the structures we still rely on, and were never compensated for their sacrifices. Let us commit to standing united in the pursuit of a more perfect union -- one that can only be achieved through collective and individual actions promoting and acknowledging the inextricable connection between African American contributions to our nation’s history and its future.

In solidarity,
Mark

Mark Sanchez, Ed.D.
Superintendent/President
Southwestern College
900 Otay Lakes Road
Chula Vista, CA 91910