Juneteenth Marks Nearly 160 Years of Freedom As Juneteenth approaches, Americans reflect on the significance of this holiday, which commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. Signed by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863, the Emancipation Proclamation officially freed all captive African Americans. However, slavery persisted in some parts of the South due to Southerners' defiance and refusal to comply with the order.
It wasn't until Union troops arrived in Texas on June 19, 1865, that the remaining slaves learned of their freedom, marking the beginning of true celebration. The abolishment of slavery was finally made permanent when Georgia ratified the 13th Amendment six months later. Today, Juneteenth is recognized as an official federal holiday... established by President Biden in 2021.
The holiday's name combines "June" and "nineteenth" to honor the historic day that slavery came to an end in Texas. WKMG notes that Juneteenth is an important reminder of the ongoing fight for human rights and equality, "a cause championed by the National Museum of African American History and Culture." As the holiday marks nearly 160 years of freedom, "Americans acknowledge the significant progress made towards equality.".. while continuing to work towards a more just and equitable society.
ORLANDO, Fla. – Next Wednesday is the holiday known as Juneteenth and this year marks nearly 160 years of freedom. Slavery was federally outlawed when the Emancipation Proclamation was signed by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863, freeing all captive African Americans on paper, according to the Associated Press . However, there were some Southerners who refused to relay this news to slaves or comply with the order.
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