Celebrating Juneteenth

On June 19, 1865, federal troops marched into Galveston, Texas to announce that the Civil War was over and freed the remaining 250,000 enslaved men and women. As we commemorate and celebrate Juneteenth, we honor the African American leaders who have fought against racism and discrimination to end slavery and uphold civil rights. The holiday has always been a special part of so many of our lives.

“Juneteenth being a state holiday reminds us that freedom and racial equality have always been a hard-fought battle for Black Americans,” said Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford (D-Maywood). “This day gives everyone an opportunity to celebrate Black culture, Black achievements, and learn more about Black history.”

In 2021, Illinois passed legislation to mark Juneteenth as a state holiday – and Congress quickly followed suit, making it a federal holiday as well. It reminds us that freedom and racial equality have always been a hard-fought battle for Black Americans and gives us an opportunity to celebrate our culture and achievements.

The fight isn’t over—and we continue to use today to reflect on ways to create a more just world.

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