Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

UNT Dallas is proud of our campus diversity and our commitment to making educational equity a reality for urban Dallas communities. Our university not only stands for educational equity, we also stand for equal treatment of all people of color and an end to the systemic racism that has plagued Texas, the nation and the world for too many years.

Now the world is responding. People young and old, from different races, cultures, nationalities, religions and backgrounds, are all joining forces and working together to identify meaningful ways to ensure that Black Lives Matter, Black people are seen, Black people are heard, and Black culture is celebrated.

To commemorate Juneteenth and the end of slavery in the U.S., the UNT Dallas main campus and the College of Law will close on Friday, June 19. I encourage you to use this day as a time of reflection, remembrance, mourning, celebration, self-education and participation. 

What is Juneteenth?

• Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, Jubilee Day and Emancipation Day, commemorates June 19, 1865, when more than 250,000 Black slaves in Texas were informed that the Civil War had ended, and that slavery had been abolished -- two years earlier

Why is Juneteenth important?

• The holiday honors Black history in the U.S., represents freedom for Black people, and is a time for families to gather and reflect on the sacrifices and hardships endured by their ancestors

There are many Juneteenth activities and celebrations taking place in Dallas and throughout the state. I encourage each of you to celebrate in a way that makes sense to you, and to use this day for something positive. Meaningful change can start in your community, in your neighborhood, in your home and with you. 

We look forward to seeking input from our campus community as we identify ways to continue honoring this historical holiday in 2021 and beyond. 

Sincerely,

 Bob Mong
UNT Dallas President

 Note to Staff: For time reporting, under type of leave, please select “Leave-Building Closure-EMG” in the eLeave drop-down box.