A Short History of Juneteenth
While the Emancipation Proclamation was signed into effect on January 1, 1863, it was not until two and a half years later that the last enslaved people were freed in Galveston, Texas. On this day, federal troops led by Union General Gordon Granger arrived with the news that slavery had been abolished within the United States.
It is estimated that more than 250,000 enslaved African-Americans were liberated on June 19, 1865. Since then, Black Americans have celebrated this day, the true Emancipation Day, with prayer, time spent with family, parades, and other various events. After being honored for over 150 years by the Black community, Juneteenth was recognized as a federal holiday by the United States government in 2021.
It is always essential to recognize the history and values of our fellow Brothers and Sisters. Join Local 877 in standing with and celebrating the Black community on Juneteenth.