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Juneteenth: Celebrating Freedom and Liberation
The History of Juneteenth
Juneteenth, also known as Emancipation Day or Juneteenth Independence Day, is a federal holiday in the United States observed annually on June 19. It commemorates the end of slavery in the country and is a powerful symbol of freedom and liberation.
On June 19, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and issued General Order No. 3, which officially informed the remaining enslaved people in the state that they were free.
The Juneteenth Flag
The Juneteenth flag is a symbol of the holiday and represents the resilience and determination of the formerly enslaved people in the United States. The flag features a red star on a blue field, representing the end of slavery, and a white stripe, symbolizing hope for the future.
How Juneteenth Became a Federal Holiday
Efforts to make Juneteenth a federal holiday gained momentum in the 20th century. In 1980, Congress passed a resolution to designate Juneteenth as a national holiday. However, it wasn't until 2021 that President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law, making it a permanent federal holiday.
Juneteenth Today
Today, Juneteenth is celebrated nationwide with parades, festivals, and educational events. It is a time for reflection, remembrance, and the celebration of the progress that has been made in the fight for racial justice and equality.
Juneteenth is a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for freedom and dignity for all Americans.
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