What is Juneteenth? What to know about the newest federal holiday

Juneteenth, America's youngest federal holiday, celebrates the emancipation of the last enslaved Black Americans following the Civil War. The date holds special meaning as it marks June 19, 1865, when the news of freedom finally reached enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Established as a federal holiday in 2021, Juneteenth has gained increasing national recognition, especially amidst movements for racial justice.

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1. The Origins and Historical Significance of Juneteenth

Juneteenth is a unique celebration rooted deeply in America's journey toward freedom and equality. The holiday marks the historic events of June 19, 1865, in Galveston, Texas, when Union troops finally arrived and announced the end of slavery in the last Confederate state. Even though the Civil War had ended on April 9, 1865, and President Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation had been effective since January 1, 1863, it wasn't until that June day that all enslaved African Americans in Texas were officially informed of their freedom.

To put it simply, although laws had already declared them free, many enslaved people in Texas had no idea they were officially emancipated until Union soldiers enforced the law. This delay happened because enslavers intentionally withheld this game-changing information for over two years.

As Cliff Robinson, founder of Juneteenth.com put it:

"Although enslaved people had been officially emancipated years prior, enslavers responsible for telling them ignored the order until Union troops arrived to enforce it."

This day is often called Emancipation Day or Freedom Day: a name that directly reflects the spirit of the occasion.

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2. How the Name "Juneteenth" Came to Be

The term "Juneteenth" is simply a combination of "June" and "nineteenth," signifying the exact date—June 19th—when Major General Gordon Granger made the historic proclamation in Galveston. Since then, the day has also been popularly referred to as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, celebrating the moment the last group of enslaved Black Americans learned that they were, in fact, free.

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3. Juneteenth's Rise to National Recognition

Although Juneteenth had been celebrated for generations, it surged into the national spotlight in 2020, during a time of widespread protests over chronic racial injustices in America. These demonstrations were largely sparked by the tragic deaths of Breonna Taylor and George Floyd at the hands of police. The renewed discussions about equality and justice led more people than ever before to embrace Juneteenth as a symbol of hope and perseverance.

As described:

"The day, also known as Emancipation Day or Freedom Day, rose to national prominence in 2020 amid nationwide protests against ongoing racial inequities, sparked in part by the police killings of Breonna Taylor and George Floyd."

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4. Official Federal Recognition and State Observance

In 2021, President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, officially making Juneteenth a federal holiday. This action marked a significant milestone, recognizing the importance of commemoration at the highest level.

However, it's important to note that not every state observes Juneteenth in the same way. For example, in New England, New Hampshire is the only state that does not recognize Juneteenth as a state holiday.

"President Joe Biden recognized Juneteenth as a federal holiday in 2021 when he signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act. However, not every state recognizes it as a state holiday."

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5. When and How Juneteenth is Observed

Juneteenth takes place on June 19 every year. In 2025, it will be on a Thursday. On this day, major institutions across the U.S. observe the holiday, resulting in closures of banks, government offices, the United States Postal Service, and most schools.

"Juneteenth is considered a bank holiday, according to the Federal Reserve."

"The United States Postal Service, schools and government offices will also be closed on June 19."

People across the country celebrate with community events, educational activities, parades, and special gatherings that honor freedom and African American culture.

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Final Thoughts

Juneteenth is much more than just an extra day off; it's a reminder of the ongoing quest for liberty, equality, and acknowledgment of America's past. As the country continues to recognize and reflect on this important day, its message of freedom and justice resonates more deeply each year. ❤️🎉