Juneteenth: A Day of Celebration and Remembrance
Juneteenth Officially Juneteenth National Independence Day
WEB Juneteenth, officially Juneteenth National Independence Day, is a federal holiday in the United States celebrated annually on June 19 to commemorate the end of slavery in the country. The name "Juneteenth" is a portmanteau of "June" and "nineteenth," referring to the date on which the Emancipation Proclamation was officially read in Texas, freeing the last enslaved people in the United States.
A History of Freedom
Juneteenth has its roots in the Emancipation Proclamation, issued by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863. However, it wasn't until June 19, 1865, over two years later, that Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and officially announced the end of slavery in the state. This news was met with widespread celebration among the enslaved population, who had long yearned for their freedom.
A Day of Unity and Celebration
Today, Juneteenth is a day of celebration, unity, and remembrance. It is a time for African Americans to reflect on their history and the struggles they have overcome. It is also a day for all Americans to come together to celebrate the progress that has been made towards racial equality.
Federal Recognition
In 2021, Juneteenth was officially designated as a federal holiday by President Joe Biden. This recognition is a significant milestone in the fight for racial justice and a testament to the progress that has been made since the end of slavery.
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