Juneteenth is the oldest celebration in America commemorating the abolition of slavery in America. Originating in Galveston, TX, on June. 19, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger announced the emancipation of slaves—two and a half years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. As this tradition has grown in importance and stature throughout history, Black communities across the country continue to celebrate Juneteenth with great festivity and ceremony.
Today marks the 152nd Anniversary of Juneteenth and we have gathered a list of resources and events to commemorate it:
#Juneteenth isn’t just an obscure black holiday. It should be a national celebration.
Here is why Juneteenth is important for America. pic.twitter.com/wlii6MnBZK
— The Root (@TheRoot) June 19, 2017
National Museum of American American History and Culture
“Juneteenth and the memorial to black history in Texas”
“Editorial: All of Kansas City should celebrate Juneteenth”
“Juneteenth proves to be day of history, conversation”
“Poet brings verses of freedom to Juneteenth celebration”
“Remembering Juneteenth ‘Is Not Just A Black Thing,’ Says Fort Worth’s Opal Lee”
“Philadelphia Juneteenth celebrations to honor slaves’ journey to freedom”
Many additional resources are available through the National Juneteenth Observance Foundation