06/19/2026
Juneteenth commemorates the day in 1865 when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, learned of their freedom—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. It is a day to honor freedom, resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of equality.
In science, progress is driven by diverse perspectives, curiosity, and opportunity. The field of chemistry has been shaped by the contributions of many Black scientists whose discoveries have advanced medicine, materials science, environmental research, and education.
Today, we celebrate the achievements of those who have helped expand access to education and scientific discovery while recognizing the importance of creating inclusive spaces where all students can learn, explore, and contribute.
Happy Juneteenth from the Utah Tech Chemistry & Biochemistry Department.
For an accompanying graphic, you could highlight pioneering Black chemists such as Percy Lavon Julian, Marie Maynard Daly, and Lloyd Noel Ferguson with a "Chemists Who Changed the World" theme.