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On June 19, 1865, Texas announced the abolition of slavery. That decision essentially emancipated African-American slaves throughout the Confederate states. Though a day of celebration, Juneteenth is also a day to reflect on the history of slavery. Photograph: (Open Source)
Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, marks a turning point in American history. It commemorates 19 June 1865, when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce the end of slavery — more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued.
Over time, Juneteenth has evolved into a day of reflection, celebration and education about the African American struggle for freedom.
Historical roots of Juneteenth
To understand Juneteenth’s significance, one must revisit the Civil War era. On 1 January 1863, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring all enslaved people in Confederate states to be free. However, enforcement of this order relied heavily on the advance of Union troops. In many parts of the South, slavery persisted well beyond the Proclamation’s signing.
Texas, relatively isolated and under minimal Union presence, became a stronghold where slavery continued unchecked. It was not until Major General Gordon Granger and his troops landed in Galveston on 19 June 1865 that the proclamation was enforced in Texas. General Order No. 3 informed enslaved Texans that they were free. This moment, more than two years after Lincoln’s decree, is what Juneteenth commemorates.
How Juneteenth is celebrated
Early celebrations of Juneteenth included church services, barbecues, music, and public readings of the Emancipation Proclamation. These gatherings were often held in rural areas or in land purchased specifically for the purpose, such as Emancipation Park in Houston.
Today, Juneteenth celebrations continue to thrive across the United States. Common events include parades, historical reenactments, storytelling, and festivals showcasing Black culture, art, and cuisine. Educational programmes and discussions on racial equity also form an important part of modern observances.
Juneteenth as national holiday
For many years, Juneteenth remained a largely regional observance. The civil rights movement in the 1960s brought renewed attention to the day, as did more recent efforts to address racial injustice in America.
In 2021, Juneteenth was officially recognised as a federal holiday in the United States, under the name Juneteenth National Independence Day. This recognition marked an important step toward acknowledging the full history of slavery and emancipation in the country.
Why Juneteenth matters today
Juneteenth is more than a celebration of freedom; it is a day to reflect on the unfinished work of equality. The legacies of slavery — systemic racism, economic disparity, and social injustice — still shape American society. By commemorating Juneteenth, communities honour those who fought for freedom and highlight the ongoing struggle for true equality.
The growing recognition of Juneteenth invites all Americans to learn from history, celebrate progress, and recommit to the principles of justice and liberty for all.