NEW YORK, (June 19, 2022) – Caroline Barrett, SanovaWorks Senior Director, Operations
Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. It is also often observed for celebrating African-American culture.
Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States, Juneteenth originated in Galveston, Texas, and it has been celebrated annually on June 19 in various parts of America since 1865. Also referred to as Jubilee Day, Emancipation Day, Freedom Day, and Black Independence Day, there are many ways to celebrate and honor Juneteenth.
Juneteenth
Juneteenth’s commemoration is on the anniversary date of June 19, 1865, an announcement proclaiming freedom for enslaved people in Texas, which was the last state of the Confederacy to have institutionalized slavery.
Juneteenth National Independence Day
Now, officially Juneteenth National Independence Day, this year, Juneteenth 2022 is being observed on Monday, June 20, 2022, as a federal holiday. The day was first recognized as a federal holiday on June 17, 2021, when President Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law. Many government offices and businesses will be closed.
From its Galveston, Texas origin in 1865, the observance of June 19th as the African American Emancipation Day has spread across the United States and beyond.
Early Juneteenth Celebrations
After the announcement, people who were formerly enslaved in Galveston celebrated. On June 19, 1866, one year after the announcement, free men in Texas organized the first of what became the annual celebration of “Jubilee Day”.
Honor the Holiday Celebrating with Family & Friends
Many communities throughout America and beyond celebrate Juneteenth for a day, a week, or even a month. Ways to honor and celebrate Juneteenth in various communities include:
- Celebrate with Backyard BBQs
- Shop Black-owned businesses
- Attend celebrations and festivals that include African American culture, music and art
- Check your local community for ways to honor and celebrate Juneteenth with family and friends!
Center African American Voices and Organizations
We recognize we aren’t the authorities on Juneteenth. Take a moment to listen, become educated, and honor and amplify African American voices and organizations. Juneteenth is a moment in American History that is worth all the joy and celebration we can express. Enjoy your day.
Resources:
How to Celebrate Juneteenth | Today
Juneteenth is a Federal Holiday Celebrate Black Joy
Poet Amanda Gorman celebrates the gift of Blackness for Juneteenth