1
Juneteenth: A New Federal Holiday
Juneteenth's Significance
Juneteenth, celebrated annually on June 19th, commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. On this day in 1865, enslaved people in Texas finally learned they were free, over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation had been issued.
Juneteenth has long been celebrated by African Americans as a day of liberation and community. In 2021, it became the first new federal holiday approved since Martin Luther King Jr. Day in 1983.
President Biden Signs Juneteenth Bill
On June 17, 2021, President Biden signed a bill into law establishing Juneteenth as a federal holiday. This historic legislation officially recognizes Juneteenth as a day to commemorate the end of slavery and celebrate the contributions of African Americans to the nation.
Juneteenth as a Day of Remembrance and Celebration
Juneteenth is a day for all Americans to reflect on the history of slavery and its lasting impact on the country. It is also a day to celebrate the resilience and determination of African Americans who have overcome adversity to make significant contributions to society.
As Juneteenth becomes a national holiday, it will serve as a reminder of the fight for freedom and equality that has shaped the American experience. It is a testament to the progress that has been made, while also acknowledging the work that still needs to be done to achieve a truly just and equitable society.
1
Comments