The 19th of June or Juneteenth commemorates when the slaves in Galveston, Texas were formally notified that the war was over and of the freedom granted by the Emancipation Proclamation. On June 19, 1865, General Gordon Granger posted General Order #3. The historical significance affects not only African Americans in Texas, but also the many others who have stood for racial equality helping where they could, lobbying and lecturing nationally and around the world. In recognition of the fact that 45 states celebrate Juneteenth as a state holiday, we believe that designating it a National Day of Observance like Flag Day in U.S. Code: Title 36 will provide an opportunity for all Americans to learn more about our common past and to better understand the experiences that have shaped our Nation.
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