This Monday, Americans should recognize their newest federal holiday, Juneteenth, as more than just another three-day weekend.
Also known as Emancipation Day, the name blends “June” and “nineteenth” — the date in 1865 when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced General Order No. 3,
Also known as Emancipation Day, the name blends “June” and “nineteenth” — the date in 1865 when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced General Order No. 3,
While pockets of slavery would persist elsewhere, the moment gave rise to what became the oldest African American holiday, with celebrations held as early as 1866.
Last year, President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, creating a new national holiday and inviting all Americans to reflect on its significance
The day commemorates America’s early efforts to right a tragic wrong
challenges the nation to confront the unfinished business arising from its original sin.
In effect, it asks Americans to reconcile their national aspirations with the reality of persistent inequalities.