Student Article

Juneteenth is short for “June Nineteenth.” It is the day in 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, were finally told they were free. Union soldiers, led by Major General Gordon Granger, arrived and read a statement that slavery had ended. This was over two years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation.

Why freedom took so long to reach everyone

Although slavery was illegal, many white Texans continued to keep people enslaved. Some refused to free them until they were forced to. Even after the announcement, violence and unfair treatment continued. Juneteenth became a day to remember this delayed freedom and to celebrate African American culture.

Celebrating Juneteenth against the odds

For many years, Black communities celebrated in parks, since they were often not allowed to use public spaces. In Houston, formerly enslaved people even bought land to create Emancipation Park in 1872.

Juneteenth becomes a holiday for all

Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021. Today, people celebrate with parades, music, food — especially red foods like watermelon and red drinks, which symbolize strength and survival.

A day to remember and keep fighting for freedom

Juneteenth is a day for honoring the past, recognizing freedom, and continuing the work for justice and equality.

© Emma Mason / www.historyextra.com