Juneteenth: Celebrating Freedom and Commemorating History

By Brenda DiMuro

Having grown up in the South, Texas in particular, I had never heard of this celebration until late 2019. Juneteenth, also known as Emancipation Day or Freedom Day, is an annual holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. It is observed on June 19th, marking the day in 1865 when Union soldiers, led by General Gordon Granger, arrived in Galveston, Texas, with news that the Civil War had ended and that all enslaved individuals were now free.

Despite President Abraham Lincoln issuing the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, declaring that all enslaved people in Confederate-held territory were to be set free, the news did not reach many enslaved individuals until years later. Texas, in particular, was one of the last Confederate states where the proclamation was enforced due to a lack of Union presence.

Upon hearing the news of their freedom, formerly enslaved people in Texas celebrated with jubilation, marking the first Juneteenth celebrations. These festivities often included prayers, songs, dances, and communal gatherings. Over time, Juneteenth celebrations spread across the United States as African American communities commemorated their ancestors' resilience and perseverance in the face of slavery and oppression.

Juneteenth holds significant cultural and historical importance as a day to reflect on the struggles and achievements of African Americans throughout history. It serves as a reminder of the long and arduous journey toward freedom and equality and the ongoing fight against systemic racism and injustice.

President Biden made Juneteenth a federal holiday in 2021 and was observed immediately the same year. Despite the federal holiday designation, many states such as South Carolina, and businesses, still do not recognize this holiday. Recognizing Juneteenth not only honors the contributions and sacrifices of African Americans but also provides an opportunity for all Americans to reflect on the country's history and work toward a more inclusive and equitable future.
​
As Juneteenth continues to gain widespread recognition and significance, it serves as a reminder that the struggle for freedom and equality is ongoing. By commemorating Juneteenth, we honor the past and reaffirm our commitment to building a more just and equitable society for future generations.

---

AUTHOR

Brenda DiMuro is a payments executive within the credit union industry using her voice and influence to make greater change within the industry and movement. Connect with her on LinkedIn.