Why is it called Juneteenth? What to know about Washington events

Summary:
Juneteenth, now both a Washington state and U.S. federal holiday, marks the end of slavery in the United States and is observed each year on June 19. It commemorates the moment when enslaved people in Texas learned of their freedom in 1865, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. This guide explains the origins, meaning, and local celebrations of Juneteenth in Washington state, highlighting its journey from a community event to a recognized holiday.

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1. What holiday is Juneteenth?

Juneteenth is a day with deep roots in American history, celebrated on June 19 every year to mark the end of slavery in the United States. The story starts with President Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation, which took effect on January 1, 1863, declaring enslaved people in the Confederate states to be free. However, not everyone heard the news right away. It wasn't until June 19, 1865, that Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, and finally delivered a transformative message:

"The more than 250,000 enslaved Black people in the state were free."

This announcement came a full two and a half years after Lincoln's proclamation, making it a pivotal moment for freedom in the U.S.

The first Emancipation Day celebrations started a year later, in 1866, and looked quite different from today's events. According to the Texas State Library and Archives Commission, early gatherings included:

• Prayer services
• Inspirational speeches
• Reading of the Emancipation Proclamation
• Stories from formerly enslaved people
• Food, red soda water, games, rodeos, and dances

Also worth noting is the 13th Amendment, ratified on December 6, 1865, which officially ended slavery across the United States (except as punishment for a crime).

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2. Why is it called Juneteenth?

The name Juneteenth is actually a blend of the words "June" and "nineteenth." Kelly Navies, a museum specialist and oral historian, sums it up simply:

"June + 19 = Juneteenth."

This catchy portmanteau speaks directly to the date when freedom was finally announced in Texas.

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3. Is Juneteenth a federal holiday?

Yes! In a historic move, President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law on June 17, 2021, officially making Juneteenth a federal holiday. As soon as he put pen to paper, the law became effective:

"The law took effect immediately after Biden's signature."

On federal holidays, you can typically expect government offices, schools, banks, and financial markets to be closed. This rule applies to Juneteenth as well, giving people time to reflect, gather, or celebrate.

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4. When did Juneteenth become a Washington state holiday?

Washington followed not long after the federal move. On May 13, 2021, Governor Jay Inslee signed HB 1016, establishing Juneteenth as an official state holiday. The law took effect on July 25, 2021, and the very first paid state holiday was observed in 2022.

Just like federal holidays, state government agencies and courts in Washington close in honor of the day. Fun fact: Texas led the way as the first state to make Juneteenth an official holiday back in 1980, and now, all 50 states and Washington, D.C., recognize the day in some fashion:

"All 50 states and the District of Columbia now recognize the day in some form."

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5. Where are Juneteenth celebrations in Washington state?

Every year, communities across Washington state come together to honor Juneteenth with lively and meaningful events:

• Tacoma: The biggest event in the state is "Juneteenth: A Road to Economic Freedom," held at Stewart Heights Park on June 19 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The organizers estimated an impressive turnout of 12,000–14,000 people in 2024! The festival offers live music, food trucks, local vendors, and more.

• Seattle: The Northwest African American Museum hosts "Juneteenth: A Movement for Joy," an all-day celebration featuring the second Black Art Takeover, community talks, an expo, and plenty of physical activities.

• Olympia: The Women of Color in Leadership Movement presents the city's annual Juneteenth celebration at Rebecca Howard Park, featuring presentations, local performers, and vendors.

• Spokane: Grant Park lights up with live music, delicious food, and local vendors from noon to 4 p.m., thanks to the Inland Northwest Juneteenth Coalition.

These events offer an inviting space for everyone to learn, reflect, and enjoy the rich cultures and stories behind Juneteenth.

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Final Thoughts

Juneteenth is more than just a date on the calendar—it's a powerful reminder of freedom, struggle, and progress in American history. As it grows from small community traditions into a celebrated holiday across all states, the message of hope and equality continues to inspire. Whether you're attending a big festival or learning more at home, Juneteenth offers everyone a chance to celebrate how far we've come and reflect on the journey ahead. 🎉