The History of Juneteenth

Juneteenth (also known as Freedom Day) marks the date of June 19, 1865 when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas to finally inform enslaved Black people of their freedom. Texas was the last state to receive the news. This historical moment came two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed on January 1, 1863.

People have celebrated Juneteenth since that day in 1865. Celebrations first began in Galveston and Houston, spreading throughout the west. Juneteenth was established as a federal holiday in 2021.

“It is a celebration of freedom, family, and the joy of being alive.”

– Kelly Navies, Museum Curator, National Museum of African American History & Culture

In honor of Juneteenth, learn and reflect on the significance of this profound moment in American history.

Juneteenth history

January 1, 1863: The Emancipation Proclamation was signed, declaring that

people who were enslaved were free.

June 19, 1865: Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas to finally inform enslaved Black people of their freedom. Texas was the last state to receive the news.

June 19, 1866: People celebrate the first Juneteenth in Galveston and Houston. Over the years, more people began recognizing Juneteenth.

1900: NAACP leader James Weldon Johnson wrote the poem Lift Every Voice and Sing, with music composed by his brother John Rosamond Johnson. This song became a hopeful appeal for the liberty of Black Americans, later used as a rallying cry during the Civil Rights Movement.

June 19, 1980: Texas becomes the first state to recognize Juneteenth as a state holiday.

2016: Opal Lee, known as the grandmother of Juneteenth, began a walking campaign with a mission to make Juneteenth a federal holiday. In her 90s, she hosted her events in cities from her hometown of Fort Worth, Texas to Washington, D.C. Her campaign became an annual event until Juneteenth was

named a federal holiday.

2021: Juneteenth was established as a federal holiday.

Juneteenth resources

Visit the National Museum of African American History & Culture’s website, where you’ll find more about the history of Juneteenth, a Juneteenth reading list, and much more.

Thank you for honoring this important historical moment with us. Follow us on social media and visit AreteLiving.com/deib to recognize cultural holidays and observances throughout the year.