Why Juneteenth Matters in Veterinary Medicine
On June 19th, we honor Juneteenth, a pivotal moment in American history that marks the true end of slavery in the United States. While the Emancipation Proclamation was issued on January 1, 1863, it wasn’t until June 19, 1865—more than two years later—that Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to inform enslaved African Americans of their freedom.
Juneteenth is a day of liberation, reflection, and celebration. It’s about recognizing the resilience of Black communities and honoring the ongoing fight for equity and justice. But what does this historic day mean for veterinary medicine—and why should our profession care?
The Diversity Gap in Vet Med
Veterinary medicine is one of the least diverse health professions in the U.S., with Black veterinarians making up less than 2% of the workforce. That number isn't just a statistic—it's a call to action.
Juneteenth reminds us that freedom is more than the absence of chains. It’s about access: to education, to opportunity, to representation. In vet med, that means breaking down barriers that have historically excluded underrepresented groups from pursuing careers in this field.
Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future
As we reflect on Juneteenth, we’re reminded of those who paved the way—trailblazers like Dr. Frederick Douglass Patterson, founder of the Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine, who created opportunities for Black students when few existed.
Today, the torch is carried by students, techs, and veterinarians who are changing the face of veterinary medicine one patient—and one mentorship—at a time.
What You Can Do
You don’t have to be Black to celebrate Juneteenth or to support inclusion in our field. Here are some ways you can honor this day:
Educate yourself and your team about the history of Juneteenth and the experiences of Black professionals in vet med.
Support Black-owned veterinary businesses and organizations like BlackDVM Network, SNABV, and Multicultural VMA.
Mentor a future veterinarian who comes from an underrepresented background.
Speak up when you see bias, gatekeeping, or exclusion—because silence maintains the status quo.
A Celebration of Freedom—and Possibility
Juneteenth is not just about looking back; it’s about building a future where everyone belongs in the veterinary profession. It's a celebration of freedom—but also a challenge to use that freedom to create space, equity, and opportunity for all.
This June 19th, let’s do more than remember. Let’s reflect, take action, and commit to a more inclusive future—because that’s what true freedom looks like.
