In this captivating episode of “Juneteenth in Galveston: Where It All Began,” we are honored to introduce Dr. Araminta Coleman Sorrell, the owner and founder of Juneteenth and Beyond Guided Tours. The conversation is led by former councilwoman of Galveston, Cornelia Harris Banks. Cornelia begins by setting the stage in the picturesque city of Galveston, a place rich with black history and untold stories that transcend traditional textbooks and tours. She emphasizes the excitement and uniqueness of the first city-sanctioned African American tour in Galveston, and the joy of being a part of the Juneteenth story. Dr. Araminta Sorrell then delves into some of the most frequently asked questions on her tours. A profound question she often receives is whether President Abraham Lincoln should be credited for freeing enslaved African Americans. Through her extensive research, Dr. Sorrell provides an insightful historical perspective. She touches upon the Emancipation Proclamation, issued on January 1, 1863, and discusses its impact on enslaved people in rebel territories versus those in Unionstates who had to wait for emancipation. One poignant tradition linked to the Emancipation Proclamation is Watch Night, where African Americans across the South gathered on New Year’s Eve to await their freedom. Yet, Dr. Sorrell clarifies that true freedom came through the efforts of the Union soldiers who enforced these proclamations on the ground. The conversation further explores the complexities of freedom, highlighting the difficult transitions faced by freed African Americans, particularly under General Order No. 3 issued by