On June 19, 1865, enslaved African Americans in Texas were told they were finally free — marking the official end of slavery in the U.S. 

And centuries later, we celebrate this liberation every June 19 under the federal holiday of Juneteenth. 

In our commitment to racial justice and equity, we’re leaning into the history of Juneteenth and the fight that goes on. 

The History of Juneteenth

While the Emancipation Proclamation went into effect in 1863, it took two and a half grueling years to be fully implemented across the United States. Specifically on June 19, 1865, Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas to announce that 250,000 enslaved Black people were free.

And on June 17, 2021, President Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law, officially marking Juneteenth as a federal holiday.

Our Fight Now

Juneteenth is an incredible day to recognize the stories and strength of Black Americans, but we know this recognition is a small step in a much larger fight for racial justice. 

To honor Juneteenth’s history and significance, we’re fighting to dismantle the injustices established by generations past. It’s up to us to move our country forward to a better future. 

Join us in our fight by taking action for racial justice and equity now.