Published: June 16, 2023
Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, is an important holiday celebrated annually on June 19th. It holds significant historical and cultural importance in the United States, marking the emancipation of enslaved African Americans.
"Juneteenth marks both the long, hard night of slavery and subjugation and a promise of a brighter morning to come. It is a day of profound weight and power that reminds us of our extraordinary capacity to heal, hope, and emerge from our most painful moments into a better version of ourselves. Great nations don't ignore their most painful moments. They confront them to grow stronger. And that is what this great nation must continue to do."
Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas to announce the end of slavery. This proclamation, known as General Order No. 3 , declared that all slaves were now free almost two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation had been issued. Juneteenth symbolizes the belated arrival of freedom to the enslaved African American community and serves as a reminder of the struggles they endured.
On June 17, 2021, after decades of advocacy by activists and legislators, President Biden signed into law the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, Public Law 117-17, making Juneteenth a Federal holiday. This landmark decision marked a crucial step in acknowledging and honoring the African American experience and the ongoing struggle for racial equality.
As Juneteenth gains widespread recognition, it provides an opportunity for education and reflection on the history of slavery and the ongoing struggle for racial equality. Schools, museums, and community organizations hold discussions, workshops, and exhibits to promote understanding and dialogue about the legacy of slavery and its impact on society.
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Presidential Statements and
Remarks in the Congressional Record related to Juneteenth.
Additional Resources
Watch the 2021 signing ceremony for Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, Public Law 117-17 with remarks from President Biden and Vice President Harris.
- Juneteenth: A Celebration of Freedom, National Park Service
- The Historical Legacy of Juneteenth, Smithsonian
- Check out the Smithsonian’s Juneteenth website to learn more about the history of Juneteenth, share your Juneteenth story, and find activities for children and youth.
- Find additional resources related to African American History on the National Archives website.