This proclamation was issued on January 1, 1863, but the actual implementation and enforcement of this proclamation was not swift. The proclamation declared “that all persons held as slaves” within the rebellious states “are, and henceforward shall be free.” What is Juneteenth?Īfter the Civil War, a presidential proclamation and executive order, the Emancipation Proclamation, was issued by United States President Abraham Lincoln. So if you fall into the camp of “What is Juneteenth?”, let’s explore how this monumental date in history impacted our nation and why we are all encouraged to observe and celebrate America’s other National Independence Day. With no context, direction, or guidance, this day can become ‘just another day.’
For Americans who have never been exposed to or participated in observing the recently instituted federal holiday, there can be confusion on how to celebrate or even why they should care. Or it may even be the first time someone has heard of the word “Juneteenth”. For many people in the U.S., this is the first time they will experience a day off to observe. In June 2021, President Joe Biden signed legislation that made June 19, Juneteenth, a federal holiday.
