Juneteenth: A Day of Emancipation, Celebration, and Reflection
Juneteenth National Independence Day: A Federal Holiday
Juneteenth, officially known as Juneteenth National Independence Day, is a federal holiday in the United States. It is celebrated annually on June 19th to commemorate the end of slavery in the country.
Background and Significance
On June 19th, 1865, nearly two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas, to enforce the proclamation and take control of the state. However, due to the slow spread of news during that time, it took two and a half years for the news of emancipation to reach all of the enslaved people in the United States.
Juneteenth has since been celebrated as a day of freedom, emancipation, and the recognition of the resilience and contributions of African Americans to the nation's history.
Alternate Names
Juneteenth has also been known by various other names, including Juneteenth Independence Day, Freedom Day, second Independence Day, and Emancipation Day.
Observance and Significance Today
Today, Juneteenth is celebrated with parades, festivals, picnics, and other gatherings. It is a time to reflect on the history of slavery and the ongoing struggle for racial equality in the United States. It is also a time to celebrate the resilience and achievements of African Americans and to honor the progress that has been made towards a more just and equitable society.
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