Author: [AUTHOR] Published on 6/17/2022 7:57:00 AM

ASCPT Celebrates Juneteenth

Juneteenth, often referred to as America’s second Independence Day, is a reminder that for hundreds of years, the principles on which America is built – life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness – were not extended to all people. While the Emancipation Proclamation that freed all enslaved people in America took effect on January 1, 1863, it wasn’t until more than 2 years later, on June 19, 1865, that Union soldiers entered Galveston Bay, Texas, and shared the news with enslaved people there. 
 
In 2021, Juneteenth was declared an official Federal holiday in the United States, and ASCPT joins its Black members, both in the US and across the globe, in celebrating the end of slavery in America as well as recognizing that there is still much to be done to create a just, equitable, and inclusive society for Black Americans and all people of color. Our leadership, members, and staff are committed to acknowledging and uplifting the contributions of Black scientists to clinical pharmacology and translational science, which is why ASCPT will present the first Dolores Shockley Diversity and Inclusion in Clinical Research Award in 2023; supporting upward career trajectories for our Black members; and furthering an inclusive and equitable environment within ASCPT and throughout the scientific community as a whole. We encourage you to take some time today to celebrate and educate yourselves about the importance of Juneteenth and how you can contribute to meaningful change.