How many days until Juneteenth?
Juneteenth, a federal holiday in the United States, commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. The name 'Juneteenth' is a portmanteau of 'June' and 'nineteenth,' reflecting the holiday's date. However, it is also known by various other names, such as Freedom Day, Jubilee Day, Liberation Day, and Emancipation Day. These alternative names not only reflect the cultural richness and diversity of its observance but also signify the different aspects of freedom and liberation that the holiday represents.
What is Juneteenth?
Juneteenth holds a significant place in history, marking the day Union Army General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865, and announced General Order No. 3. This decree, issued in the final Confederate state to have institutional slavery, Texas, declared freedom for enslaved individuals. It's important to note that President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, more than two years prior to this event, making Juneteenth a pivotal moment in the fight for freedom.
Juneteenth is observed annually on June 19th. In 2021, following the passage of the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, it was officially recognized as a federal holiday in the United States. This recognition underscores the day's importance in American history and its role in acknowledging and addressing the legacy of slavery.
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