Juneteenth (short for June Nineteenth) marks June 19, 1865, when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced General Order No. 3:
“All slaves are free.”
This was the last major holdout of slavery in the Confederacy, and the announcement effectively ended slavery in the U.S., even though President Lincoln had signed the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863.
Why Was There a Delay?
- The Emancipation Proclamation only applied to Confederate states.
- It couldn’t be enforced in areas still under Confederate control.
- Texas, being remote and less involved in battles, ignored the order until Union troops arrived and enforced it.
So for over two years, enslaved people in Texas remained in bondage even though they were legally free.
Why Is Juneteenth Important?
- It marks the true enforcement of freedom for all enslaved people in the U.S.
- It’s a powerful symbol of resilience, liberation, and delayed justice.
- It honors the struggles and contributions of African Americans throughout U.S. history.
How Is It Celebrated?
Juneteenth is observed with:
- Community gatherings
- Music and dance
- Barbecues and traditional food
- Reflection, education, and cultural events
- Parades and festivals
Red foods and drinks (like red velvet cake, strawberry soda) are often served, symbolizing resilience and sacrifice.
When Did It Become a National Holiday?
- Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021, signed into law by President Joe Biden.
- It’s the first new U.S. federal holiday since Martin Luther King Jr. Day was established in 1983.
Conclusion
Juneteenth is not just a celebration of freedom — it’s a reminder of how long justice can be delayed, and how important it is to acknowledge the full history of America. It honors the end of slavery, while also celebrating African American culture, resilience, and progress.
