Juneteenth

Juneteenth celebrates the end of slavery and has been called our country’s “second Independence Day.” While the Emancipation Proclamation, freeing all enslaved people in Confederate territories, took effect on January 1, 1863, it wasn’t until June 19, 1865, when some 2,000 Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas, to announce that all enslaved people in the state were free. It was known as “Juneteenth” to the newly freed slaves. After the war ended and the Thirteenth Amendment abolished slavery throughout the United States, the first official Juneteenth celebration was held on June 19, 1866.

Common Practices

Many people celebrate Juneteenth through parades, festivals, and barbeques. Music, dancing, and games are also popular. Many Juneteenth celebrations feature red drinks and foods, which symbolize the blood shed during slavery and the resilience of the African American community. Many also shop at black-owned businesses and remember what happened in the past.

Community Considerations

Do not schedule important events or activities. Expect that observers will not attend meetings or communicate.

Juneteenth

Juneteenth

Common Practices

Community Considerations

Office of the Vice President for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion social media channels