Juneteenth, also called Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, is an annual holiday celebrated in the United States on June 19th. It marks the day in 1865 when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, and proclaimed that all enslaved individuals were free, two and a half years after then President, Abraham Lincoln, issued the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth has long been observed by African Americans, dating back to June 19, 1866, in Galveston, Texas. It is a significant moment in American history, underscoring the ongoing struggle for racial justice and equality. Juneteenth was declared a federal holiday on June 17, 2021, when President Biden signed into law Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, S. 475, creating a federal holiday to commemorate Juneteenth, making it the first federal holiday approved since Martin Luther King Jr. Day in 1983.
The 2025 national Juneteenth theme, “Together we Ride the Juneteenth Wave of Freedom to Liberty!”, symbolizes unity, collective action, and forward momentum toward true liberty and equality. The theme calls for collective recognition of historical achievements, while underscoring the need for ongoing efforts to reach genuine liberty and equality for everyone.
Meaning:
“Together we Ride” emphasizes solidarity, encouraging communities of all backgrounds to come together in celebrating progress and committing to continued collaboration in the fight for racial equality.
“Juneteenth Wave of Freedom” represents the historic journey since June 19, 1865, when enslaved African Americans in Texas finally learned they were free, marking the end of slavery in the U.S. This imagery of a “wave” symbolizes the continuous, powerful movement toward justice, freedom, and equity.
“to Liberty!” points toward an aspirational destination—true liberty beyond mere legal freedom, encompassing equal rights, social justice, and genuine inclusion in American society.
It is up to us to Humanize slavery. Juneteenth is more than a celebration. It is an observance acknowledging and recognizing not just the plight of Black people but the self-liberation of Black people in the United States. Join us as we observe, respect, and celebrate the remembrance of resilient enslaved people.
~Monica Tucker
Black El Paso Voice | Founder/Publisher
Juneteenth El Paso – Multicultural Juneteenth Celebration
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