What is Juneteenth, and how is it celebrated in South Jersey?

Summary:
Juneteenth is a U.S. holiday commemorating the end of slavery, celebrated every June 19. While the Emancipation Proclamation was issued in 1863, many enslaved people, especially in Texas, weren't freed until June 19, 1865, making that date a powerful symbol of freedom. Across South Jersey, events like parades, performances, and educational gatherings are held to honor Black history and community.

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1. The History and Significance of Juneteenth

To understand Juneteenth, it's important to know where it all began. The holiday marks the day when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, finally learned they were free—two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation had been signed. On June 19, 1865, Union troops, led by Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger, arrived to announce their freedom. For that reason, the holiday gets its name: June plus nineteenth equals "Juneteenth!"

"Juneteenth recognizes one of the most important moments in United States history."

Even though Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, it didn't instantly end slavery everywhere. Many in Texas remained enslaved until Union forces could enforce the law.

"More than 250,000 people remained enslaved in Texas until June 19, 1865, when Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas in 1865 with 2,000 Union troops to proclaim that more than 250,000 enslaved Black people in the state were free—two-and-a-half years after Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation on Jan. 1, 1863."

Soon after 1865, the celebrations began in Texas. Known by many names—Emancipation Day, Freedom Day, Jubilee Day, and even Black Independence Day—Juneteenth became a symbol of hope and progress.

"The first Juneteenth celebrations included political rallies to teach freed Black people about their voting rights, and later included picnics, family reunions, dramatic readings, blues festivals and ball games."

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2. Juneteenth as an Official Holiday 🏛️

For more than 150 years, Juneteenth was observed in communities across the country, but only informally. It became an official state holiday in Texas in 1980.

"In 1980, Texas became the first state to make Juneteenth a state holiday."

As Juneteenth's meaning spread across the U.S., other states and organizations began to recognize its importance. In recent years, it became a federal holiday, ensuring that government offices and many services close in observance.

"Yes, Juneteenth is designated as a federal holiday, and nonessential government offices are to be closed."

If you're wondering about specific services:

• Post offices are closed on Juneteenth, so there's no regular mail delivery.
• Priority Mail Express is the only mail service operating that day.

"All post offices are to be closed and there's to be no regular residential or business mail deliveries on Thursday, June 19, according to the U.S. Postal Service's website."

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3. How Juneteenth is Celebrated

Juneteenth traditions have grown and changed over time. Early gatherings included parades, prayer meetings, and educational events aimed at building and uplifting the community. In modern times, celebrations blend these historical elements with fun community activities like picnics, music, and art.

"Over the last 159 years, the holiday has grown beyond Texas, becoming simultaneously a celebration of Black joy and progress, and an opportunity to recognize the enduring impacts of slavery, racism and oppression."

Different cities and neighborhoods mark the day with their unique twist, but the holiday's heart remains the same: remembering the past and moving forward together.

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4. Juneteenth in South Jersey: Local Events

South Jersey offers a variety of Juneteenth events, each geared toward bringing people together in learning and celebration.

Here are some highlights for 2025:

• Camden Juneteenth Celebration:
  On June 19 at Roosevelt Park (4:30-9 p.m.), enjoy music, performances, and family activities. More info: camdencounty.com

• Gloucester Township:
  The annual festival happens June 21 at Veterans Park (1-4 p.m.), featuring music, art, youth activities, food, and a cultural marketplace. Details: glotwp.com

• Cherry Hill Parade and Festival:
  June 21 at Croft Farm (10 a.m.-3 p.m.): parade, live entertainment, food trucks, games, pony rides, petting zoo, and face painting. Hosted by local organizations and the Cherry Hill Police Department. Info: chaaca.org

• Collingswood Unity in the Community Day:
  June 22 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. along Haddon and Irvin avenues, celebrating the Black diaspora and educating about Juneteenth's significance. Learn more: camdencounty.com

"This event aims to honor the rich cultural heritage of the Black diaspora, promote unity, and educate the community about the significance of the holiday."

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5. 2025 Federal Holiday Calendar

Keeping track of holidays is always helpful! Here are the federal holidays for the rest of 2025:

1. Juneteenth — Thursday, June 19
2. Independence Day — Friday, July 4
3. Labor Day — Monday, September 1
4. Columbus Day — Monday, October 13
5. Veterans Day — Tuesday, November 11
6. Thanksgiving — Thursday, November 27
7. Christmas — Thursday, December 25

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Final Thoughts

Juneteenth is not only a commemoration of the end of slavery in America, but also a time to reflect on progress, community, and the continuing journey toward equality. With events across South Jersey and the country, it's a heartfelt opportunity for education, remembrance, and joyful celebration.