Juneteenth 2016

We still fight for freedom and fairness in America on Juneteenth. This day shows how strong Black folks have been all through time and in our world today. When we celebrate this day, we think about race and what's right, and we also enjoy Black culture and all the good things it brings.

 

What's Juneteenth All About?

 

June 19 is when we remember the day Black people who were slaves became free in America. It all happened on June 19, 1865. On that day, some soldiers from the North came to a place called Galveston in Texas. They told all the slaves there that they were now free people. This big news came about two years after the man in charge, President Abraham Lincoln, said that slaves in the South should be free. He wrote this down in something called the Emancipation Proclamation.

 

Historical Background

 

This was enacted on January 1, 1863, but enforcement was contingent upon Union troops entering Confederate states. Texas was one of the last free slave states. On 19 June 1865, Major General Gordon Granger issued General Order No. 3 declaring all enslaved people free. The order was a turning point in American history, and Juneteenth is sometimes called Freedom Day.

 

In 1866 it was the first Juneteenth celebration. People celebrated with church services and community gatherings. Through the years, these celebrations grew throughout the nation. Juneteenth is celebrated today with activities including:

 

• Families share food and fellowship.
• Many cities have marches honoring African American culture and history.
• Music performances, dancing, and storytelling are common during celebrations.
• Workshops and discussions teach African American history and the significance of Juneteenth.

 

Federal Holiday Status

 

When Juneteenth comes around now, a lot of things change for the day. Most government offices close up shop. Even some regular stores and businesses might take the day off. It's like the whole country takes a break to think about this important day and what it means for all of us.

 

You might also want to read about Independence Day, its history, significance, symbols, and observance.