Celebrating Juneteenth

Juneteenth is observed every year on June 19 to commemorate the liberation of the last slaves in Texas on June 19, 1865. This date marks the arrival of Union soldiers in Galveston, Texas, who informed the residents that slavery had been abolished, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Former slaves celebrated their newfound freedom with prayer, feasting, song, and dance. Many communities, including the Bay Area, honor this day with local festivities such as parties, parades, picnics, and festivals.