5 things you need to know about Juneteenth as celebrations grow
- Juneteenth marks the day in 1865 when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, finally learned they were free, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation.
- It became a federal holiday in 2021, but many states still do not recognize it as a paid day off, creating a patchwork of observance across the country.
- Parades, cookouts, and educational events are hitting record attendance this year, with major brands and corporations sponsoring local celebrations for the first time.
- Critics argue commercialization is diluting the holiday’s focus on Black history and reparations, while supporters say broader visibility helps spread its message.
- Check local listings for events near you; many cities are hosting live music, art exhibits, and historical reenactments to honor the day.