Juneteenth 2024: What to Know About the Federal Holiday

Juneteenth History and Significance

Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, is a federal holiday in the United States that commemorates the end of slavery in the country. The holiday marks the anniversary of June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation, which had been issued two years earlier by President Abraham Lincoln.

Celebration and Recognition

Juneteenth is a day of celebration and reflection for African Americans, and it has been recognized as a state holiday in many states since the 1980s. In 2021, Juneteenth was established as a federal holiday by President Joe Biden.

The holiday is typically celebrated with parades, festivals, concerts, and other events. It is also a time for people to reflect on the history of slavery in the United States and the ongoing fight for racial justice.

Juneteenth in 2024

In 2024, Juneteenth will be observed on Wednesday, June 19. This will be the second year that Juneteenth has been celebrated as a federal holiday.

As the nation prepares to commemorate this important holiday, it is important to remember the significance of Juneteenth and the ongoing struggle for racial equality.