Honoring Juneteenth

Juneteenth (also known as Freedom Day) marks the date of June 19, 1865 when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas to finally inform enslaved Black people of their freedom. Texas was the last state to receive the news. This historical moment came two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed on January 1, 1863.

People have celebrated Juneteenth since that day in 1865. Celebrations first began in Galveston and Houston, spreading throughout the west. Juneteenth was established as a federal holiday in 2021.

“It is a celebration of freedom, family, and the joy of being alive.”

– Kelly Navies, Museum Curator, National Museum of African American History & Culture

Learn the history of Juneteenth

This Juneteenth, we invite you to learn and reflect on the significance of this profound moment in American history. Read the flyer posted in your building and attached here.

Juneteenth_History_Flyer_2025.pdf

Download PDF • 269KB

Visit the National Museum of African American History & Culture’s website, where you’ll find more about the history of Juneteenth, a Juneteenth reading list, and much more.

Thank you for honoring this important historical moment with us. Follow us on social media and visit AreteLiving.com/deib to recognize cultural holidays and observances throughout the year.