Federal Holidays 2024

Juneteenth Now Recognized as Federal Holiday

June 19th Marks Second Independence Day in America

In a significant milestone for the recognition of Black history and culture, Juneteenth has officially become a federal holiday. The holiday, which commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States, was established by legislation passed by Congress and signed into law by President Joe Biden.

Juneteenth, observed annually on June 19th, marks the day in 1865 when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, and informed enslaved people that they were free, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation had been issued.

Juneteenth has been celebrated in Black communities for decades, but its designation as a federal holiday is a historic moment. It is now one of eleven federal holidays recognized nationwide by the United States Government.