The History of Juneteenth

Origins

The origins of Juneteenth trace back to June 19, 1865, when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and issued General Order Number 3, declaring all slaves free in accordance with the Emancipation Proclamation 1. This marked a significant milestone in the abolition of slavery, although it was not the final step. Celebrations began the following year, initially known as Jubilee Day, and were held by freed African American slaves in Galveston 2.

The general order read, the people of Texas are informed that in accordance with a proclamation from the executive of the United States, all slaves are free.

--- Gary Arndt

Despite the end of slavery, former slaves faced significant challenges, including inequality and restricted access to public spaces 2.

   

Federal Holiday

Juneteenth's journey to becoming a federal holiday was long and complex. Initially recognized by Texas in 1938 as Emancipation Day, it wasn't until January 1, 1980, that it became an official state holiday 2. The recognition spread across the United States, with every state except South Dakota acknowledging it by 2021. Finally, on June 17, 2021, Juneteenth was declared a federal holiday, marking the first new federal holiday in nearly 40 years 3.

On June 17, 2021, the Juneteenth National Independence Day act was signed into law, becoming the 11th federal holiday in the United States.

--- Gary Arndt

This recognition underscores the importance of Juneteenth as a symbol of freedom and equality, celebrated by descendants of freed slaves for over 150 years 2.