What is the importance of Juneteenth?

Juneteenth, or “Freedom Day” is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. This holiday is considered the “longest running African-American holiday” and has been called “America’s second Independence Day.” It was on June 19, 1865 that Union soldiers, led by Maj. Gen.

Will banks be closed for Juneteenth 2021?

Most major banks will remain open Friday despite Juneteenth becoming a new federal holiday signed into law by President Joe Biden. However its financial services will remain open — a standard practice for any federal holiday that falls on a Saturday, according to the Fed.

What does the word Juneteenth mean?

History and Etymology for Juneteenth blend of June and nineteenth.

Why don’t we celebrate Juneteenth as a holiday?

In the early 20th century, economic and political forces led to a decline in Juneteenth celebrations. From 1890 to 1908, Texas and all former Confederate states passed new constitutions or amendments that effectively disenfranchised black people, excluding them from the political process.

How is Juneteenth celebrated?

How to Celebrate Juneteenth This Year

1. Find an event in your neighborhood.
2. Host your own backyard party.
3. Cook some traditional foods.
4. Support Black-owned businesses.
5. Listen to Black artists.
6. Read books written by Black authors and poets.
7. Watch Black TV shows and movies.
8. Visit an exhibit or museum dedicated to Black culture.

Is there mail delivery on Juneteenth 2021?

The U.S. Postal Service announced mail delivery and other operations will continue Friday and Saturday despite the new Juneteenth federal holiday. For that reason, the Postal Service will be operating on June 18 and 19, 2021, on a normal schedule, serving our customers to the best of our ability.”

Is the Federal Reserve closed on Juneteenth 2022?

For holidays falling on Sunday, all Federal Reserve offices will be closed the following Monday….K. 8 – Holidays Observed by the Federal Reserve System 2021-2025.

Is it OK to say Happy Juneteenth?

Just say ‘Happy Juneteenth! ‘ The easiest way to wish someone a Happy Juneteenth is by messaging them and wishing them a fulfilled day. Similar to Black History Month, and other important anniversaries to Black Americans, it is important to acknowledge it as an American holiday, even if you do not celebrate it.

Which states do not recognize Juneteenth?

According to the Congressional Research Service, a government body that provides research to inform lawmakers, South Dakota is the only US state that does not have a law to mark the celebration of Juneteenth. The most recent states to add a law recognizing the holiday are Hawaii and North Dakota.

When did Juneteenth become a thing?

Juneteenth was originally celebrated in Texas, on June 19, 1866. It marked the first anniversary of the day that African Americans there first learned of the Emancipation Proclamation, more than two years after it was initially issued.

Should you say Happy Juneteenth?

How do people celebrate Juneteenth on social media?

How Brands can Celebrate Juneteenth on Social Media

1. Educate Your Community.
2. Spotlight Black-owned Businesses and Creators.
3. Use Hints of Red, Green, and Black in Your Juneteenth Graphics.
4. Use Diverse Images and Stock Photography Websites.
5. Don’t Use Juneteenth As an Opportunity to Sell.

What is Juneteenth and why does it matter?

Credit Credit… WASHINGTON — President Biden signed legislation on Thursday to make Juneteenth a federal holiday, enshrining June 19 as the national day to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States.

Who voted against the Juneteenth Bill?

Two days before the nation celebrated Juneteenth, the bipartisan bill that recognized June 19 as a federal holiday achieved near unanimous passage as it was voted on in the House. Among its dissenters was Rep. Matt Rosendale, R-Montana, who joined 13 other members in voting against the bill.

Is Juneteenth National Independence Day?

“The bill has nothing to do with the federal holiday on July 4th and doesn’t address it legislatively in any way. It only designates June 19th as ‘Juneteenth National Independence Day,’ in addition to the other existing federal holidays.

Is school closed on Juneteenth?

The law went into effect immediately, making Friday the first federal Juneteenth holiday. Public schools were closed on a moment’s notice. The federal Office of Personnel Management announced that most federal employees would observe the holiday on Friday, since June 19 falls on a Saturday this year.