Celebrating Freedom and Community this Juneteenth

June 17, 2025

Dear Campus Community,

This week we proudly celebrate Juneteenth – a holiday that has become a powerful reminder of Black freedom, resilience and the unfinished journey toward justice.

Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, the day when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas — more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed — to finally enforce the order that ended slavery. It marks a delayed but critical step toward the freedom of enslaved people in the U.S.

At Chaffey College, we recognize that the fight for racial equity and justice is far from over. That is why we remain deeply committed to promoting equity in every corner of our community. We know that our unwavering commitment and dedication transforms the college experience for our students. I deeply appreciate that our community intentionally and unabashedly infuses equity into curriculum, facilities, events, services, hiring, professional development, customer service and more. I appreciate all of you who work tirelessly in support of current and future students and each other.

Please join us as we celebrate Juneteenth from noon to 2 p.m. Wednesday, June 18, at the Rancho Cucamonga campus quad. This community event will feature free food (while supplies last) and live entertainment. This is a moment for us to embrace freedom, culture and joy.

In observance of the Juneteenth holiday, all campuses will be closed on Thursday June 19. Regular summer schedules will resume Friday, June 20.

I hope this holiday gives you a moment to reflect on the past, celebrate our ongoing good work, and refresh you to focus on a more equitable future.

Sincerely,

Henry D. Shannon, Ph.D.
Superintendent/President