What is Juneteenth?
Although most marked the end of slavery with the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1963, there were more than 250,000 enslaved blacks who remained under the rule of masters until June 19, 1865.
Even though the Emancipation Proclamation had be signed 2 year prior, it could not be implemented in areas of western Texas were strong Confederate control reigned. On June 19, 1865 in Galveston Bay, Texas, around 2,000 Union troops freed those remaining slaves - a day that has now become known as “Juneteenth”. Juneteenth is also known as “Juneteenth Independence Day”, “Freedom Day”, or “Emancipation Day”.
[National Museum of African American History & Culture. (June 19, 2019).The Historical Legacy of Juneteenth. https://nmaahc.si.edu/explore/stories/historical-legacy-juneteenth]
When did Juneteenth become a National Holiday?
Juneteenth became a national holiday on June 17, 2021. It is the 11th holiday recognized by the federal government and was passed by the senate on June 15, 2021. President Joe Biden signed the bill into law on June 16, 2021 which immediately gave federal employees the day off that year - many employers also implemented this effect.
In 1980, Texas became the first state to designate Juneteenth as a holiday. Currently, every state but South Dakota recognize Juneteenth as a holiday.
How is Juneteenth celebrated?
Juneteenth is usually celebrated in prayer and family gatherings. Some of the known descendants of those enslaved also like to make an annual pilgrimage back to Galveston. In recent years, Juneteenth has grown to be a nationally recognized holiday with festivals and parades.
Why is Juneteenth important?
Several public and/or political issues have brought to light the overwhelming need for education in regards to black history. Cases such as George Floyd and Ahmaud Arbery are just two examples in which race was a fatal factor. Juneteenth is a positive opportunity to not only host a social gathering, but provide an educational experience for the community that is a safe space for discussion and growth for all parties.
The Juneteenth Muncie Committee
Mission: The mission of the Juneteenth Muncie Committee is to promote awareness and appreciation of African American history and life in order to build more inclusive communities today.
Vision: To acknowledge the past and celebrate of history of resilience, versatility, and courage.
Purpose: To promote awareness and appreciation of African American history and culture in Muncie, Indiana through engagement , education, and empowerment including the creation of appropriate community events and activities.
