JUNETEENTH

A sign celebrating the freedom of slaves.

What is Juneteenth?

Juneteenth is an annual commemoration commemorating the abolition of slavery in the United States. It commemorates the day (June 19, 1865) when news of liberation reached Galveston, Texas, from the farthest reaches of the old Confederacy.

However, there has been renewed interest in the day that commemorates freedom in recent years, notably following countrywide protests over police brutality and the killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and other Black Americans.

Given the broad changes and extensive protests across the United States over the last year, and following a guilty judgment in the killing of Mr. Floyd, the celebration continues to reverberate in fresh ways.

Here's a quick rundown of everything you need to know about Juneteenth.

How is it celebrated?

According to Juneteenth.com, which tracks gatherings, the inaugural celebration became a yearly one, and it expanded in prominence over time with the inclusion of descendants. The day was marked by prayer and the reunification of families. Men and women who had been slaves, as well as their descendants, made an annual trip back to Galveston for various celebrations on this day.

facts about Juneteenth

When a group of African-American clergy and businesspeople in Houston purchased 10 acres of property and established Emancipation Park in 1872, the celebrations reached unprecedented heights. The event was supposed to be held at the site for the city's annual Juneteenth celebration.

While some festivities now take place in backyards with families with food as a central theme, certain places, such as Atlanta and Washington, have major events like as parades and festivals with citizens, local companies, and others.

While the coronavirus epidemic dampened celebrations in 2020, some cities are pushing ahead with plans this year.

Members of the Black community and their allies frequently march and parade in modern-day commemorations to raise awareness and continue the fight for racial equality more than 150 years after the Civil War ended.

Juneteenth National Independence Day was declared a federal holiday in 2021, on the 156th anniversary of the end of slavery in the United States.

Every year, June 19 is a terrific day to appreciate and embrace Black culture through its art and history for anyone who isn't Black but would like to recognize Juneteenth. You could wish to study about African Americans' key firsts, read a book by a Black author, see a film about Black life, or support Black-owned businesses. Most importantly, keep in mind that all of these actions should take place every day, not just on Juneteenth. Because there is never a bad time to honor everyone in our country's independence.

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