juneteenth

The quick read

What's driving the attention

Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States and is increasingly recognized nationwide, including closures of banks and stores on the holiday.

Juneteenth celebrates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, marking the day news of the Emancipation Proclamation reached the last group of enslaved people in Texas in 1865. Observance includes historical reflections on Black freedom and 'marronage' and recognition through proclamations and public holidays. People are seeking explanations about Juneteenth's significance, its origins in Texas, and which services and businesses close in observance.