Juneteenth, a celebration marking the end of slavery in the United States, has been an important day in African American history for over a century. While it was widely observed in various communities across the nation, it was not until recently that Juneteenth gained federal recognition as a national holiday. In this article, we will explore the significant milestones and the legislative efforts that ultimately led to the establishment of Juneteenth as a federal holiday.
When was Juneteenth made a federal holiday?
On June 16, 2021, the Parliament House passed the bill of making Juneteenth a federal holiday by an overwhelming majority, with a vote of 415-14. The final step required President Joe Biden’s signature to make Juneteenth a federal holiday.
On June 17, 2021, President Biden signed the bill into law, officially establishing Juneteenth as a federal holiday. This historic moment recognized Juneteenth as the first new federal holiday since Martin Luther King Jr. Day was established in 1983.
The Origins of Juneteenth
Juneteenth traces its roots back to June 19, 1865, when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and issued General Order No. 3, officially proclaiming freedom for the enslaved people of Texas. This announcement came more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation had been signed by President Abraham Lincoln, and it marked a crucial moment in the abolition of slavery.
Throughout the years, Juneteenth grew in significance as a day of remembrance and celebration. African American communities across the country organized various events, such as parades, picnics, and family gatherings, to commemorate the emancipation of their ancestors and to reflect on the ongoing struggle for equality.
State Recognitions and the Push for Federal Recognition
The recognition of Juneteenth as a state holiday started in Texas, where it was first officially celebrated in 1980. Over time, other states joined in commemorating Juneteenth as well. By 2020, 47 states and the District of Columbia had either recognized it as a state holiday or an observance.
The momentum for Juneteenth’s federal recognition picked up in recent years. However, it was not until 2021 that significant progress was made. On June 15, 2021, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, introduced by Senator Edward Markey of Massachusetts, designating Juneteenth as a federal holiday.
Celebrating Juneteenth as a Federal Holiday
As a federal holiday, Juneteenth grants federal employees a day off and allows for national recognition and commemoration of this important milestone in American history. The holiday encourages reflection on the legacy of slavery, the ongoing struggle for racial justice, and the contributions of African Americans to the nation.
Additionally, the designation of Juneteenth as a federal holiday promotes education and awareness about the history of slavery and its impact on society. It serves as an opportunity for Americans of all backgrounds to deepen their understanding and engagement with the ongoing work of equality and justice.