06/19/2026
Did you know that Juneteenth is a combination of the words June and nineteenth?
It commemorates the day more than two months after the end of the Civil War โ and more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation โ when enslaved Black Americans in Galveston, Texas, were informed of their freedom.
The day represents a time for education, reflection, and community.โฅ๏ธโ๐พ
Opal Lee, known as the โGrandmother of Juneteenth,โ was instrumental in the fight for federal recognition. At age 89, she began an annual walking campaign to raise awareness.
President Joe Biden made Juneteenth a federal holiday when he signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law on June 17, 2021.
By the time the federal bill passed in 2021, nearly all 50 U.S. states recognized Juneteenth as a state holiday or observance.
How we celebrate!๐ฅณ
Support for Black-Owned Businesses: Many observe the day by specifically shopping at and uplifting Black-owned local businesses and cultural arts.
Cookouts and Festivals: Central to the day are family gatherings feasting on traditional dishes, particularly smoked meats, red drinks (like strawberry soda and hibiscus tea), and watermelon.
Parades and Picnics: Communities often host large public parades, marches, and historical reenactments.
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