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A little-known, but enormously important American historical fact, traditionally celebrated by pockets of people across the country has now received the attention it deserves. President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law on Thursday, June 17, making June 19 or “Juneteenth,” which marks the ending of slavery in the U.S., a federal holiday. 

This milestone was lauded during Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion’s virtual Juneteenth Celebration and Observance, held Friday, June 18. 

“Juneteenth is truly a significant day, and one we should be celebrating,” said Southern Illinois University System President Dan Mahony, PhD. “We are excited about it now being a federal and state holiday. It’s a recognition that has been a long time in coming.” 

More than 50 people joined the virtual celebration to further learn about the holiday, share experiences, ask questions and learn about local Juneteenth celebrations. 

CSDI Juneteenth facts included:

• President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation was not enforced until Gen. Robert E. Lee surrendered to the Union in 1865, two years after the emancipation proclamation was declared. 
• On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers led by Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger landed at Galveston, Texas with news that the war had ended and the enslaved were now free.
• Juneteenth is also called Freedom Day, Jubilee Day, Liberation Day and Emancipation Day.
• In the 1870s, a group of formerly enslaved people pooled $800 together through local churches to purchase 10 acres of land and create Emancipation Park to host future Juneteenth celebrations in modern-day Houston. 

“For me, Juneteenth is deeply personal,” said Vice Chancellor for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (VCEDI) Jessica Harris, PhD. “It’s a reminder of my heritage. The heritage that my forebears bequeathed to me, and a heritage defined by pride and resilience. It also signals a deep loyalty to and love of family and community, and is a reminder to never forget who I am, and where I come from.” 

After presentations, participants had the opportunity to discuss Juneteenth further in breakout rooms. Common themes were the widespread ignorance on the historical fact of Juneteenth, that Juneteenth is an important part of American history and how the remnants of slavery still exist today. 

“How do we facilitate enduring change?” asked Harris. “Perhaps Juneteenth is also an opportunity to reflect on this question and the issues we must address–the remnants of the very peculiar institution, the institution of slavery–that Juneteenth calls us to remember.” 

“As we close out today, we hope you keep in mind that Juneteenth marks our country’s second Independence Day,” said SIUE Chancellor Randy Pembrook. “The historical legacy of Juneteenth shows the value of never giving up hope in uncertain times. We know much can be uncertain, so it is imperative to maintain hope and understand the power of perseverance.” 

For more information on local Juneteenth celebrations, visit siue.edu/csdi/events/Juneteenth.shtml.