Juneteenth originated in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865, when enslaved people were informed of their emancipation. This day in history holds significance as the first state to officially recognize the celebration of Juneteenth. Despite the Emancipation Proclamation being issued in 1863, the abolition of slavery was not put into effect in certain Confederate-controlled regions until later, as stated by the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. It wasn’t until June 19, 1865, when around 2,000 Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas, that freedom finally reached the enslaved individuals in the area, marking a crucial moment in American history.
A momentous event that took place on June 18, 1983, was Sally Ride becoming the first American woman in space, showcasing the progress made in breaking down barriers and achieving new milestones. The path to freedom for enslaved people had already begun two and a half years earlier when President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, emphasizing the importance of this historical document. The arrival of Union troops in Galveston led to Major General Gordon Granger issuing General Orders, No. 3, declaring more than 250,000 enslaved individuals in Texas as free by executive decree, as documented by historical sources.
General Order No. 3, delivered by Major General Granger, was a pivotal moment that announced the emancipation of slaves in Texas, marking the beginning of a new era of freedom. The official handwritten record of this order is preserved at the National Archives Building in Washington, D.C., highlighting the historical significance of this declaration. Juneteenth, a combination of the words “June” and “nineteenth,” is celebrated annually on June 19th, symbolizing the liberation of enslaved individuals and the progress towards equality.
Throughout the years, Juneteenth has evolved from a local tradition to a national celebration, featuring parades, readings, and other festivities. The holiday holds special importance in African American and Black communities, serving as a reminder of the struggles and triumphs in the fight against slavery and oppression. Community-led events, such as prayer, reflection, and leadership initiatives, have been integral in keeping the spirit of Juneteenth alive and honoring its historical roots.
In 1979, the Galveston Juneteenth Committee initiated the first annual Juneteenth Celebration, which included the reading of General Orders, No. 3, as a way to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved individuals. This tradition has continued to this day, with the holiday becoming an official state holiday in Texas in 1980, demonstrating the importance of recognizing and commemorating this pivotal moment in American history. The erection of a statue in Galveston depicting the reading of General Orders, No. 3, stands as a permanent reminder of the events that took place on June 19, 1865.
In 2006, the Juneteenth Committee, in collaboration with the City of Galveston, installed a statue memorializing the emancipation proclamation, which remains a significant landmark in the city. The transfer of the building and grounds to the Galveston Historical Foundation in 2018 ensured the preservation and management of this historic site for future generations to appreciate and learn from. The recognition of Juneteenth as a federal holiday in 2021 by President Biden further solidifies its importance in American history.
As we approach the 159th anniversary of Juneteenth on June 19, 2024, it’s essential to reflect on the progress made in the fight for equality and justice. The official name of the federal holiday, Juneteenth National Independence Day, encompasses the essence of freedom and liberation that this day represents. In joining 10 other permanent federal holidays, Juneteenth is now a recognized day of remembrance and celebration for all Americans to honor the struggles and triumphs of those who fought for freedom and equality.
