What is Juneteenth? What the holiday marks and why it matters

Summary:
Juneteenth commemorates the day when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, finally gained their freedom in 1865, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. It has become a symbolic second Independence Day in the United States, especially for the African American community. In recent years, Juneteenth was officially made a federal holiday, and Nevada recognized it as a state holiday in 2023, leading to broader public celebrations and awareness.

---

1. The Meaning and Origin of Juneteenth

While many Americans link the end of slavery to President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, the reality was more complicated. Confederate states, including Texas, ignored this federal order until Union soldiers arrived to enforce it. The turning point came on June 19, 1865, when federal troops landed in Galveston, Texas, ensuring that all enslaved people there were at last freed.

This day became known as Juneteenth—a blend of "June" and "nineteenth." The National Museum of African American History and Culture describes its significance powerfully:

"Juneteenth marks our country's second independence day. Although it has long been celebrated in the African American community, this monumental event remains largely unknown to most Americans."

Juneteenth's meaning goes deeper than just a date. It symbolizes freedom delayed, resilience, and hope. For many, it is a day to remember the long path toward justice and freedom in America.

---

2. Becoming an Official Holiday

Despite its importance, Juneteenth was largely a regional observance for many decades. That began to change recently. On June 17, 2021, Juneteenth was declared an official federal holiday. This made the significance of the day known to a much wider audience. In 2025, most government offices will close on June 19 in honor of this special day.

Nevada specifically recognized Juneteenth as a state holiday in 2023. This happened when Governor Joe Lombardo signed Assembly Bill 140 during the 2023 legislative session. Now, Juneteenth holds official status not just nationally but across Nevada as well.

"Yes. Nevada has officially recognized Juneteenth since 2023."

It's amazing how a celebration that started within a local community is now recognized throughout the whole country!

---

3. Celebrating Juneteenth Across Communities

Juneteenth is marked by a spirit of community and togetherness. Traditional celebrations often include gatherings, festivals, parades, and family get-togethers. In Reno, Nevada, the Black community has celebrated Juneteenth for 37 years, even before it was officially recognized by the state or nation.

Jessica Vann, president of the Northern Nevada Black Cultural Awareness Society, explains how these gatherings once took place in centralized neighborhoods but have now become a way to reconnect with one another:

"Back in the day our neighborhoods were pretty centralized, and we were kind of relegated to northeast Reno. And of course, since then, we've all kind of spread out."

"We are a very small community, still. The African American community here [in Reno] is we're less than 5%. There are some newcomers that have never been. There are people that have been here for years. This is an opportunity for all of those people to come together in one place and discover each other, because, again, we don't have that centralized community like we used to. You know, we're all spread out, but this is giving us one communal place."

Her words remind us that Juneteenth is not just about history; it's about building connections and finding unity—no matter where you live or how big your community is.

---

4. Juneteenth 2025 in Reno: What's Happening?

This year, Reno's Juneteenth celebration will be held at the J Resort Glow Plaza, 670 W. Fourth St., on June 19 from noon to 3 p.m. The event is packed with activities that highlight both tradition and innovation.

A special highlight is the first-ever Miss Juneteenth competition, sponsored by Shades of Queening. The winner will participate in community events throughout the year, helping to spread the spirit of Juneteenth far beyond just one day.

Organizers are also bringing back the Highsteppers (a popular performance group) and planning a tribute concert to honor the life and legacy of Frankie Beverly—a beloved figure in music and culture.

If anyone wishes to become a vendor at the event, sign-up details are available online. There's an open invitation for the community to join in, participate, and celebrate together. 🎉

---

5. Frequently Asked Questions about Juneteenth

Does Nevada recognize Juneteenth as a holiday?
Absolutely! Since 2023, Juneteenth is an official state holiday in Nevada.

How do people celebrate Juneteenth?

• Community gatherings
• Festivals and parades
• Family reunions and barbecues
• Local performances and competitions

What makes Juneteenth special in Reno?
Reno's African American community, though small, has celebrated Juneteenth for 37 years, providing a place of unity for people who might otherwise be scattered across the area.

---

Final Thoughts

Juneteenth is much more than a date on the calendar. It's a reminder of freedom delayed but ultimately delivered, a celebration of resilience, and an opportunity for communities to unite and reflect. As awareness grows and more places recognize the holiday, Juneteenth's message of hope and togetherness grows stronger each year.