America's Second Independence Day
What is Juneteenth?
Juneteenth (short for "June Nineteenth") marks the day when federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas in 1865 to take control of the state and ensure that all enslaved people be freed. The troops' arrival came a full two and a half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation.
Juneteenth honors the end to slavery in the United States and is considered the longest-running African American holiday. On June 17, 2021, it officially became a federal holiday.
Timeline
January 1, 1863
President Abraham Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring all enslaved people in Confederate states to be free.
June 19, 1865
Major General Gordon Granger arrives in Galveston, Texas and announces General Order No. 3, proclaiming freedom for enslaved people in Texas—the last Confederate state with institutional slavery.
1866
The first Juneteenth celebrations take place in Texas, featuring prayer, speeches, food, and music.
1980
Texas becomes the first state to make Juneteenth an official state holiday.
June 17, 2021
President Joe Biden signs legislation making Juneteenth a federal holiday, officially known as Juneteenth National Independence Day.
How Juneteenth is Celebrated
Juneteenth celebrations often include:
- Public readings of the Emancipation Proclamation
- Traditional foods (particularly red-colored foods and drinks)
- Parades and festivals
- Family gatherings and cookouts
- Musical performances and concerts
- Educational programs about African American history
- Community service events
Why Galveston?
Galveston, Texas holds a special place in Juneteenth history as the birthplace of the celebration. The city's geographic isolation meant news traveled slowly, and the Emancipation Proclamation wasn't enforced in Texas until Union troops arrived.
Today, Galveston hosts one of the nation's largest Juneteenth celebrations, drawing thousands of visitors annually to commemorate this pivotal moment in American history.
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