Every year on June 19, the United States celebrates “Juneteenth,” a significant day marking the end of slavery and the celebration of freedom across the nation. This historic day, also known as Emancipation Day or Freedom Day, commemorates when enslaved African Americans in Texas learned they were free in 1865. Many people call it the Second Independence Day.
Juneteenth’s origins date back to June 19, 1865. On this day, Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce the end of the Civil War and the emancipation of all enslaved individuals. This important declaration came more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, which had officially freed slaves in the Confederate states.
However, the Emancipation Proclamation could only be enforced as Union troops advanced. Texas, being one of the most remote Confederate states, had little presence of Union forces and thus largely ignored the proclamation. It wasn’t until General Granger and his 2,000 troops arrived that the people of Texas learned that all 250,000 enslaved individuals were now free. This announcement emphasized the equality of personal rights and property between former masters and slaves, marking the end of an institution that had brutalized Black people for centuries. The moment was filled with “indescribable joy,” leading to large celebrations in Texas.
For many years, Texas was the center of major Juneteenth festivities. Over time, these traditions spread across the country. Early celebrations of Juneteenth were not only about rejoicing but also educating newly freed individuals about their voting rights.
The first anniversary of Juneteenth in 1866 saw a large procession in Galveston, attracting hundreds of men, women, and children. In Houston, African American community leaders and businessmen pooled funds to buy 10 acres of land for a commemorative site, now known as Emancipation Park.
Today, Juneteenth celebrations vary widely across the country. Families and friends often gather for festive barbecues, music, and drinks. The color red, symbolizing the bloodshed and sacrifice of enslaved ancestors, is a traditional part of the Juneteenth menu. Foods like barbecued ribs, watermelon, and red velvet cake, as well as drinks like fruit punch and red Kool-Aid, are commonly enjoyed.
Traditional celebrations include marches, parades, and cultural performances. Recently, the White House kicked off Juneteenth and Black Music Month celebrations with a concert on the South Lawn, featuring legendary singers like Gladys Knight and Patti LaBelle. The event was attended by Vice President Kamala Harris, the first Black vice president.
For some, Juneteenth is a day of rest and remembrance. Many people engage in community service, attend educational panels and film screenings, or take time to reflect on the significance of the day.
Juneteenth gained increased significance following the tragic death of George Floyd in May 2020, which ignited nationwide protests against racial injustice and fueled the Black Lives Matter movement. In 2021, President Joe Biden signed the “Juneteenth National Independence Day Act,” making June 19 a federal holiday. This legislation received strong bipartisan support in Congress.
As of today, at least 30 states and the District of Columbia recognize Juneteenth as a public holiday. Every state has, at some point, acknowledged Juneteenth as a day of observance, ensuring its commemoration even if it is not a designated day off.
Juneteenth is a day to remember the struggles and celebrate the progress made towards freedom and equality. It serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of those who fought for their freedom and the ongoing efforts to achieve true equality for all.
