On June 19, 2025, Angel Reese delivered a meaningful seven-word statement to mark Juneteenth, a federal holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. Reese’s Angel Reese Juneteenth 7-word message honors the significance of this day that traces back to June 19, 1865, when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, finally learned of their freedom, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.
Angel Reese’s Statement Celebrates Black Identity on Juneteenth
Angel Reese, known for her role as a forward with the Chicago Sky in the Women’s National Basketball Association, took to X, formerly Twitter, to share a brief yet profound message in honor of Juneteenth. The statement, distributed through the NAACP on social media, read:
“It’s a beautiful day to be Black,” —Angel Reese, WNBA Star
This message resonated on a day dedicated to recognizing the importance of freedom and Black history.
Reese’s Performance and Career Progress in the 2025 Season
Despite a challenging start to the 2025 WNBA season, Angel Reese has shown notable improvements in her gameplay. Initially averaging nine points and 11 rebounds per game with a 30 percent shooting rate, Reese elevated her performance and recently recorded her first triple-double in the league. During that game against the Connecticut Sun, she scored 11 points, collected 13 rebounds, and made 11 assists, contributing to a Chicago Sky victory.
Overall, Reese currently averages 11 points and 11 rebounds per game while improving her shooting percentage to nearly 38 percent. As a former standout for the LSU Tigers and Maryland Terrapins, she is also aiming for selection to the upcoming WNBA All-Star Game scheduled for later this summer.
Juneteenth’s Historical and Contemporary Importance
Juneteenth gained recognition as a federal holiday in 2021 when President Joe Biden officially acknowledged June 19 as Juneteenth National Independence Day. This day honors the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and represents a vital milestone in American history. Celebrations like Reese’s message help keep the spirit of Juneteenth alive by reflecting on Black resilience and progress.
As Juneteenth continues to be observed nationwide, public figures such as Angel Reese use their platforms to amplify messages that remind everyone of the day’s importance and the ongoing journey toward equity.