Honoring Juneteenth: ‘A little breath of freedom’

June 19, 2026



Dear ABOTA Members:



ABOTA observes Juneteenth today as an essential milestone in our nation's history. Commemorating the arrival of Union troops in Galveston, Texas, in 1865, this day marks the moment the promise of the Emancipation Proclamation — issued in 1863 — became a reality for all enslaved Americans.

As ABOTA lawyers, we have long recognized that research consistently shows that a jury's strength lies in its diversity. When a panel represents a wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, it leads to fairer and more accurate justice. This holds true for our nation, that our community's strength lies in our diversity and commitment to equity under the Rule of Law. Juneteenth is not just a day of remembrance, but a time to reflect on the ongoing work required to uphold civil rights, dismantle systemic barriers, and ensure true equality for all.

Those who have visited our ABOTA National Office in Dallas have certainly admired a painting by nationally renowned artist Jonathan Green, which is proudly displayed in our lobby. The painting, “Daughters of the South,” was donated to the ABOTA National Office by our 2020 National President Luther J. Battiste, III, and his wife, Judy. I have often sat in the ABOTA Executive Conference Room admiring the bold, rich colors in the painting, which celebrate the vibrancy of African American life and the resilience of a people holding onto their past while stepping into the present.

While we are forever appreciative of Mr. Battiste — ABOTA’s first African-American president — perhaps my favorite painting of Mr. Green’s is his famous depiction of the Charleston Federal Courthouse in Charleston, South Carolina, that marks an important moment in American history: the opening day of the Briggs v. Elliott trial on May 28, 1951. The Briggs case, brought by 21 courageous citizens of Summerton, South Carolina, was the first legal challenge in modern history to public-school racial segregation, and later became the basis of the Brown v. Board of Education argument.

The painting depicts the large crowd that gathered at dawn, hoping to gain admission to the limited courtroom seating. Judge J. Waties Waring, a Charleston-based federal judge assigned to a three-judge panel to hear the case, described the crowd as citizens seeking “freedom and liberty.” Judge Waring said, “To me, it’s awfully heartening when people suddenly sniff a little breath of freedom.” 

Indeed, this “breath of freedom” is what we honor today. Juneteenth — more than a historical date — is a living, breathing piece of recognition for America’s journey toward equality and justice. It’s a day that resonates with ABOTA’s values and our ongoing commitment to providing a nation where everyone can live with dignity and respect. Applauding Juneteenth honors our nation’s past while looking forward to a future of unity and freedom for all.

Let’s honor this day together.

Wishing all the best.

William D. Shapiro

2026 National President

American Board of Trial Advocates