Thursday, June 19, is Juneteenth, a federal holiday also known as Freedom Day and Emancipation Day. The holiday commemorates the date—June 19, 1865—that federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, and ordered the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation, announcing that the more than 250,000 enslaved people in the state were free.
The Emancipation Proclamation was effective on January 1, 1863. The troops' arrival in Galveston came a full two-and-a-half years after the signing of the proclamation, and freed the last enslaved people in the country.
Juneteenth, originally called Jubilee Day, is the oldest nationally-celebrated remembrance of the ending of slavery in the United States. Americans not only celebrate, but reflect on the rich history, spirit, and profound contributions of Black Americans to the story of America.
Juneteenth is celebrated throughout Central Texas. Check out the Community Impact website for area events.