June 19, 1865, the enslaved people in Galveston, Texas were left free. Now, people across the United States continue honoring this historical event.
Juneteenth is a federal holiday in the U.S. that commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. Over time, it has also become an opportunity to celebrate black culture in the country. Its name comes from combining the day it takes place, June and 19. Other names it receives are “Juneteenth Independence Day,” “Freedom Day” or “Emancipation Day.”
The annual holiday has been celebrated by African-Americans since the late 1800s. However, it has recently gained a lot more attention, following the protests over police brutality. Since the killing of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and other Black Americans, the interest in this celebration of freedom has re-surged.
Two days before the 156th celebration of Juneteenth, President Joe Biden signed the bill that established the occasion as a federal holiday. Therefore, many states gave public employees the day off. Some universities and colleges followed their example and honored Juneteenth in the same way.
Across the country, people celebrated the holiday in different ways. Some events involved family gatherings in backyards, sharing food and pleasant moments. Other cities, such as Atlanta and Washington, held larger events. They organized parades and festivals with residents and local businesses.
Galveston, where the announcement of freedom took place, has held large celebrations for Juneteenth for years. On this occasion, they will commemorate the holiday by painting a 464 m2 mural entitled “Absolute Equality”. The work will be placed where General Granger informed the enslaved African-Americans they were free. During the day, the city also celebrated with a parade and a picnic.
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