Congress passed a bill making Juneteenth a federal holiday. On the surface, it’s progress: recognition of emancipation long overdue.
But recognition without action is symbolism. Black Americans don’t just need a holiday. They need voting rights protected, police reform enacted, economic justice delivered. Politicians were eager to vote for symbolism. On substance, they stall.
A holiday doesn’t hurt power. Laws that shift power do. That’s why one passed easily and the others don’t.