Juneteenth

When is it celebrated?

It is observed June 19^th, but can be celebrated varying days throughout the month and can last a day to a month in length.

Who celebrates it?

It is celebrated in the United States.

Where does it originate from?

Juneteenth is celebrated to honor slavery ending.  The Emancipation Proclamation was issued on January 1, 1863, by President Lincoln.  It stated that enslaved people were free in states that seceded from the Union. Since there were no Union forces in Texas to enforce it slavery continued until General Gordon Granger brought an army to Galveston and issued General Order #3 on June 19, 1865.  It declared:

“The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free.  This involves an absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property, between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them, become that between employer and hired labor. The freed are advised to remain at their present homes, and work for wages. They are informed that they will not be allowed to collect at military posts; and that they will not be supported in idleness either there or elsewhere.”

It has been a state holiday in Texas since 1980 and is recognized as a state holiday or observance in 45 states.  Juneteenth is often called Freedom Day or Emancipation Day.

Symbols/Traditions:

• Attending festivals, events, cookouts, parades
• Honoring and learning about the achievements of African Americans
• Promoting African American culture and heritage
• Fishing, rodeos, music, BBQ, strawberry soda