Juneteenth celebrates the end of slavery in the United States. On June 19, 1865, Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the end of the Civil War and slavery. Juneteenth became a national holiday on June 17, 2021. It is a day to celebrate the freedom of African Americans.
Juneteenth celebrates the end of slavery in the United States. On June 19, 1865, Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the end of the Civil War and slavery. Juneteenth became a national holiday on June 17, 2021. It is a day to celebrate the freedom of African Americans.
Texas was the first state to begin celebrating Juneteenth, beginning in 1866. There were community events, such as parades, cookouts, prayer gatherings, historical and cultural readings, and musical performances to bring the community together. Celebrations also included speeches to inspire and educate individuals about politics and voting. Over time, communities began their own traditions for celebration, due to African Americans carrying their celebrations to other states and communities.
The post-emancipation period, known as Reconstruction (1865-1877), was a period of great hope and uncertainty for the nation. Formerly enslaved people sought after their families to reunite. African Americans also focused on establishing schools, running for political office, pushing radical legislation, and even suing slaveholders for enslavement. African Americans were enslaved for over 200 years and were inspired and empowered to make changes in their lives and nation.
Juneteenth now marks the second Independence Day in America and is becoming more widely known by Americans each year. The history of Juneteenth shows the value of never losing hope in uncertain times, which continues to inspire and empower individuals in the nation.
submitted: The Day of Freedom , Kaitlyn Keenan, Marketing & Communications Intern
June 18, 2024
