Celebrate Juneteenth National Independence Day

Celebrate Juneteenth National Independence Day

Juneteenth is an important holiday celebrating the end of slavery and the beginning of freedom for African Americans. Originating in Galveston, Texas, the Union Army officials announced the freedom of enslaved people on June 19, 1865, making it the last Confederate state to abolish slavery. President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Act of January 1, 1863, freed slaves in Confederate states. However, the Union Army’s enforcement of the proclamation depended on their advancement and it took longer for troops to reach Texas, the most remote state of the Confederacy. Although the Emancipation Act did not apply to states that remained in the Union, the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, ratified on December 6, 1865, abolished slavery nationwide, freeing enslaved individuals in states like Delaware and Kentucky.

On June 17, 2021, President Joe Biden enacted the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act to establish Juneteenth as a federal holiday. Juneteenth is a time for reflection and education. It is an opportunity to learn about African American history, culture and contributions to society. It is also a time to celebrate the resilience and strength of the African American community. By recognizing Juneteenth, we can promote cultural awareness and understanding and work towards a more just and equitable society.