In celebration of Juneteenth, the Department of Inter-Orthodox, Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations released a video presented by Rev. Samuel Davis, acting rector of St. Simon of Cyrene Orthodox Mission in New Brunswick, NJ of the Orthodox Church in America. This episode serves as a continuation of the series, “Responding to Racism: The Orthodox Witness in America.” Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, marking the anniversary of the announcement by General Gordon Granger of General Order No. 3 on June 19, 1865.

The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America is committed to fighting against racism and discrimination of any kind. His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros noted, “Our true freedom in Christ knows the full equality and dignity of every human being; may we always cherish it.”

The project proposes to share a message of hope and healing towards reconciliation. It was made possible by the generosity of The Archbishop Iakovos Leadership 100 Fund Inc.

The series is available on the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese YouTube channel.