Juneteenth Freedom Day

Celebrating the End of Slavery

Juneteenth Freedom Day commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. It is celebrated on June 19th of every year, marking the day when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce the emancipation of all slaves in the South. This historic event took place on June 19, 1865, more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation.

A Day of Jubilation and Reflection

Juneteenth Freedom Day is a time for African Americans to reflect on their ancestors' struggles and triumphs. It's a day to celebrate the rich cultural heritage and resilience of the African American community. The holiday is often marked with parades, barbecues, music, and dance performances, as well as educational events and discussions about the ongoing struggle for racial equality.

A Growing National Recognition

In recent years, Juneteenth Freedom Day has gained more widespread recognition and celebration across the United States. Many cities and states have declared June 19th an official holiday, and some companies have started to observe it as a paid holiday. As the nation continues to grapple with issues of systemic racism and social justice, Juneteenth Freedom Day serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of equality, freedom, and human rights.

The Emancipation Proclamation

On January 1, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that all slaves in Confederate territory were free. However, this proclamation did not immediately free all slaves, as it only applied to areas outside of Union control.

The End of the Civil War

The American Civil War finally came to an end on April 9, 1865, with the surrender of Confederate General Robert E. Lee. However, the news of the war's end and the emancipation of slaves did not reach Texas until May 1865.

General Granger's Announcement

On June 19, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce the emancipation of all slaves in the South. This historic event marked the beginning of a new era of freedom for African Americans, and it is celebrated to this day as Juneteenth Freedom Day.

How to Celebrate Juneteenth Freedom Day

• Attend a Juneteenth festival or event in your community
• Learn about the history and significance of Juneteenth Freedom Day
• Cook traditional African American dishes, such as barbecue and red velvet cake
• Engage in discussions about racial equality and social justice
• Support African American-owned businesses and artists

Traditional Juneteenth Foods

• Barbecue
• Red velvet cake
• Collard greens
• Black-eyed peas
• Cornbread

Juneteenth Traditions

• Reading the Emancipation Proclamation aloud
• Singing traditional African American songs, such as 'Lift Every Voice and Sing'
• Performing traditional African American dances, such as the 'Juneteenth Jig'
• Displaying the Juneteenth flag, which features a star and a broken chain

• Avoid stereotyping or romanticizing slavery: Juneteenth Freedom Day is a celebration of freedom and resilience, not a glorification of slavery.
• Don't appropriate African American culture: Be respectful of traditional African American customs and traditions, and avoid appropriating them without proper understanding and permission.
• Don't ignore the ongoing struggle for racial equality: Juneteenth Freedom Day is a reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial equality and social justice, so avoid ignoring or downplaying these issues.