Juneteenth: A Day of Remembrance and Celebration
The Origins of Juneteenth
Juneteenth, short for June Nineteenth, is a federal holiday in the United States that commemorates the end of slavery in the country. It is celebrated annually on June 19, the day that federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas in 1865 to take control of the state and ensure that all enslaved people were freed.
Juneteenth as a Federal Holiday
Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021, when President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law. This act recognized the historical significance of Juneteenth and its importance as a day of remembrance and celebration for African Americans.
Celebrations and Commemorations
Juneteenth celebrations have widely expanded across the country since the day became a national holiday. In addition to traditional gatherings and parades, many communities host educational events, concerts, and other activities to commemorate the day.
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