Juneteenth (short for “June Nineteenth”) marks the day when federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas on June 19, 1865 to take control of the state and ensure that all enslaved people be freed. The troops’ arrival came a full two and a half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth is considered the longest-running African American holiday. On June 17, 2021, it officially became a federal holiday. Juneteenth commemorates African American freedom and emphasizes education and achievement. It is a day, a week, and in some areas, a month marked with celebrations, guest speakers, picnics, and family gatherings. In Champaign, there will be a Juneteenth Celebration at Douglass Park on Saturday, June 18 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.
How do you celebrate Juneteenth? Whether it is attending a community event, watching a documentary, or celebrating with friends and family, please let us know! Please email [email protected]
The Equity and Engagement Dept. will have small prizes for those who submit a response by Tuesday, June 21!