Our Juneteenth week of events caught the attention of the news producers at Channel 3 News in Kalamazoo. They interviewed our own Elder Leslie Mathews, head of our Transformational Justice program. Following is an extended excerpt. Or enjoy the video above. Read it all here.

 June 19, 1865 –the day all people in the United States were officially granted freedom.

All across the country, Americans are celebrating this historic milestone with parades, art exhibits, music, and more.

“Freedom is one of the most important things that you'll ever have in this life,” said Elder Leslie Mathews, director of Transformative Justice and Faith in Justice, Michigan United.

Juneteenth was made a federal holiday in 2021 under former President Joe Biden, but it’s a day that’s been recognized for more than 100 years.