On June 19, the United States celebrates the end of slavery, a painful chapter in the country’s history whose legacy continues to resonate. “Juneteenth” – a combination of the words “June” and “nineteenth” – has been celebrated for decades by Black communities as “Emancipation Day,” but the recent broader recognition of racial injustices and the deepening political polarization have brought the day even more to national and cultural prominence.
Many states and cities are planning festivities to mark the day, which is often remembered with parades, street parties, and barbecues.
The History of Juneteenth
The Emancipation Proclamation of 1863 freed enslaved people in the Confederate states, but it did not immediately end slavery in places like Texas, which remained under Confederate control. Two and a half years later, on June 19, 1865, Union troops led by Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced that more than 250,000 enslaved Black people in the state were free. (National emancipation would only come with the ratification of the 13th Amendment later that year).
For Black people, the news was a moment of “indescribable joy” that was met with great celebrations in Texas. Also known as “Freedom Day,” “Jubilee Day,” “June Independence Day,” and “Black Independence Day,” the day continues to hold deep significance for the country’s Black community.
How Juneteenth is Celebrated
Texas has been the center of major Juneteenth festivities for decades, but traditions have spread across the country in recent years.
The first anniversary of the date, in 1866, was marked by a large procession in Galveston with hundreds of men, women, and children present. In Houston, community leaders raised money to buy land for a celebration site, which became known as Emancipation Park.
In Galveston, celebrations are taking place throughout this week, culminating in an emancipation march on Monday. In Houston, a three-day event will celebrate the legacy of historically Black colleges and universities. Community organizations in D.C. are hosting live music events featuring local artists.
When was Juneteenth declared a federal holiday?
In 2021, President Biden signed the “Juneteenth National Independence Day Act,” marking June 19 as a federal holiday. At the time, the country was experiencing a wave of protests for racial justice following the murder of George Floyd by the Minneapolis police.
The measure received overwhelming bipartisan support in Congress, with only 14 Republican House members voting against it. Opponents of the bill considered it an attempt to celebrate identity politics and reshape the country’s ideology.
Which states observe June 19 as a holiday?
At least 28 states and the District of Columbia will recognize June 19 as a holiday this year.
As a federal holiday, government agencies will be closed, including post offices. Commercial banks and the U.S. stock market will also be closed.
Why are red drinks consumed on June 19?
Juneteenth celebrations are associated with a rich and distinct cuisine and often feature red foods and drinks. The color red symbolizes the bloodshed associated with the brutal history of slavery, but it is also a sign of strength and joy.
Source: The Washington Post