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What is JUNETEENTH?

On June 19, 1865, it was announced that the Civil War had ended, and slaves had been freed. However, even though the Emancipation Proclamation became law in January 1863, it could not be enforced in places still under confederate control. Which took over 2 years for approximately 250,000 Texan slaves to learn their freedom had been secured by the government. Juneteenth is now the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States.

What is the origin?

Juneteenth traces its origins back to Galveston, Texas where on June 19, 1865, Union soldiers, led by Major Gen. Gordon Granger landed in the city with news that the Civil War had ended and slaves were now free. The announcement came two-and-a-half years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation of Jan. 1, 1863, that freed slaves in Confederate states. However, since that proclamation was made during the Civil War, it was ignored by Confederate states and it wasn’t until the end of the war that the Executive Order was enforced in the South.

Why is it important?

Juneteenth marks a date of major significance in American history and shows us that freedom and racial equality have always been a hard-fought battle for black Americans. A battle that systematically continues to this day.

Why should we celebrate?

There are many ways you can observe and celebrate this holiday, from supporting black businesses, to educating yourself, and using your voice to spread love. You can also take time to share the stories of black people you admire, and learn about prominent black figures in American history.

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