Juneteenth, also known as Juneteenth Independence Day or Freedom Day, is a holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. On June 19, 1865, Union Army General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas and announced that all enslaved individuals in Texas were free by executive order of President Abraham Lincoln. This announcement came over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation had been issued, as Texas was one of the last Confederate states to receive the news of the end of slavery.

Juneteenth has since become a day to celebrate freedom, commemorate the end of slavery, and emphasize African American history and achievements. It is observed with community gatherings, parades, music, food, and discussions on the significance of freedom and equality. Juneteenth is recognized as a state holiday or day of observance in most U.S. states, and efforts are ongoing to make it a national holiday. It holds a special place in Black history as a symbol of resilience, perseverance, and the ongoing fight for racial justice and equality.