Juneteenth Holiday: Now you know!
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June 10th
- is a significant day in the United States, marking the anniversary of the emancipation of enslaved Africans in the state of Texas, two and a half years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. This day is celebrated as Juneteenth, a holiday that commemorates the freedom of enslaved people in the United States.
History of Juneteenth
On January 1, 1863, President Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring all slaves in Confederate territory to be free. However, the proclamation did not apply to border states or areas under Union control. It wasn’t until June 10, 1865, that Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce the emancipation of all slaves in the state. This marked the final emancipation of enslaved Africans in the United States.
Significance of Juneteenth
Juneteenth is a celebration of freedom, liberation, and the end of slavery in the United States. It is a day to acknowledge the sins of slavery, honor the resilience and strength of enslaved people and their descendants, and recognize the ongoing struggle for racial equality and justice.
Observance of Juneteenth
Juneteenth is celebrated on June 19th (the date of General Granger’s announcement) and is observed in various ways across the United States, including:
– Parades and processions
– Music and dance performances
– Traditional African American cuisine
– Historical reenactments
– Cultural festivals
– Educational events and discussionsJuneteenth as a Federal Holiday
In 2021, President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, making June 19th a federal holiday in the United States. This recognition acknowledges the significance of Juneteenth as a national day of remembrance and celebration.
Conclusion
June 10th, or Juneteenth, is a vital day in American history, marking the emancipation of enslaved Africans in the United States. It is a day to reflect on the sins of slavery, honor the strength and resilience of enslaved people and their descendants, and continue the fight for racial equality and justice. As a federal holiday, Juneteenth serves as a national reminder of the importance of acknowledging and learning from our past to build a more equitable future.
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