When did Juneteenth become a thing?

June 19, 1865
Freedom finally came on June 19, 1865, when some 2,000 Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas. The army announced that the more than 250,000 enslaved black people in the state, were free by executive decree. This day came to be known as “Juneteenth,” by the newly freed people in Texas.

When did Juneteenth become a federal holiday?

Spurred on by the advocates and the Congressional Black Caucus, on June 15, 2021, the Senate unanimously passed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, establishing Juneteenth as a federal holiday; it subsequently passed through the House of Representatives by a 415–14 vote on June 16.

Why is it called Juneteenth?

Juneteenth honors the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. The name “Juneteenth” is a blend of two words: “June” and “nineteenth.” It’s believed to be the oldest African-American holiday, with annual celebrations on June 19th in different parts of the country dating back to 1866.

In what year was Juneteenth declared a state holiday in Texas?

1980
Some communities purchased land for Juneteenth celebrations, such as Emancipation Park in Houston, Texas. As families emigrated from Texas to other parts of the United States, they carried Juneteenth celebrations with them. On January 1, 1980, Juneteenth officially became a Texas state holiday.

What is Juneteenth and why do we celebrate it?

Juneteenth is a holiday, or commemoration meant to celebrate word of emancipation finally coming to a group of enslaved people in Galveston , Texas. It commemorates this group of slaves who learned that they had been emancipated months earlier.

What states observe Juneteenth as a holiday?

Currently, Juneteenth is recognized as a state holiday or “special day of observance” in every state but Hawaii, Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota.

Is Juneteenth a real holiday?

Yes, Juneteenth Is a Real Holiday “Happy Juneteenth!” In the first few minutes of a first-season episode of FX’s “Atlanta,” many audiences were introduced to Juneteenth. Juneteenth, also referred to as Freedom Day, commemorates the abolition of slavery on June 19, 1865.

Why is Juneteenth so important?

Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved peoples in the U.S., while also celebrating the dignity, freedom and contributions made by Black Americans. The bill formally establishes Juneteenth on June 19.