What Is Juneteenth? Meaning and History Explained

Every year, on June 19th, a wave of red, green, and joy sweeps across the nation as people come together to celebrate Juneteenth. But, what is Juneteenth, exactly? 

It’s more than just a day off work or another page on the calendar. It honors the end of slavery in the U.S. and the beginning of a long, ongoing journey toward freedom and equality. 

Juneteenth is a celebration deeply rooted in African American history, but it’s one that every American can, and should, acknowledge.

Let’s take a look at Juneteenth’s meaning, its origins, and why this important day is now a federal holiday and vibrant cultural celebration.

Juneteenth Explained: The Story of America’s Second Independence Day

The history of Juneteenth begins in Galveston, Texas – about 160 years ago. Although President Abraham Lincoln had issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, freeing enslaved people in Confederate states, it wasn’t until June 19, 1865, that Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay and informed the last remaining enslaved African Americans that they were free.

That moment sparked a celebration unlike any other. While it came far too late, the announcement meant that slavery had finally ended across the United States.

“This is American history, world history, and, most of all, Galveston history,” says Sam Collins, often called “Professor Juneteenth,” and a proud seventh-generation Texan.

A Long Road to Recognition

Following that joyful day in 1865, newly freed people began to celebrate Juneteenth each year. But, as time passed, and, as the country entered the Jim Crow era, these celebrations faded from the public eye.

In 1879, a Texas legislator attempted to make Juneteenth an official holiday, but it didn’t gain traction. It wasn’t until the 1970s and '80s that Juneteenth began to regain attention, thanks to community leaders and politicians like Albert Ely Edwards, who pushed to make it a Texas state holiday.

Then came a powerful turning point: the murder of George Floyd in 2020. This event sparked global protests and renewed focus on racial justice. Suddenly, people began paying closer attention to Juneteenth. 

Retired teacher and activist Opal Lee, known as the “Grandmother of Juneteenth,” had been advocating for national recognition for years. Her petition took off, ultimately gathering over 1.6 million signatures.

In June 2021, President Joe Biden signed the bill, making Juneteenth a federal holiday – and Opal Lee was right there to witness it.

Juneteenth Celebration Traditions

A Juneteenth celebration today can look like a joyful reunion, a block party, a history lesson, or all of the above.

You might see flags like the red, white, and blue Juneteenth flag with a star at the center, symbolizing freedom in every U.S. state. You’ll also see the Pan-African colors: red, black, and green, representing the African diaspora and resilience.

Then, there’s the food. It’s delicious and symbolic. Red drinks like hibiscus punch or strawberry soda are common, along with watermelon – a nod to how formerly enslaved people celebrated with what was accessible. 

Today, there are pageants, parades, cookouts, musical performances, and reenactments of that life-changing moment in Galveston. You’ll be sure to find Juneteenth-themed t-shirts, cups, and merchandise, too. While some criticize the commercialization, others see it as a sign of mainstream visibility and recognition.

Juneteenth vs. July 4th

Some folks wonder if they should celebrate Juneteenth instead of the Fourth of July. But, according to Professor Juneteenth, it’s not an either/or situation.

“The Fourth of July is a freedom birthday for the country, and June 19 is a freedom birthday for the formerly enslaved,” Collins explains.

Both days mark different milestones in the journey of American freedom. Recognizing Juneteenth doesn’t diminish the Fourth of July; it expands the story to include the voices and experiences of Black Americans.

Juneteenth, Cinco de Mayo, and a Bigger Picture

Interestingly, Juneteenth also connects to Cinco de Mayo. On May 5, 1862, Mexican forces defeated the French at the Battle of Puebla. That battle prevented Napoleon III from supplying the Confederacy with weapons, which may have helped tip the Civil War in the Union’s favor.

It’s all part of what Collins calls the “salad” of American history. Every part adds flavor and, by recognizing dates like Juneteenth, we see a fuller, richer picture of who we are.

Juneteenth’s Meaning Today

Juneteenth isn’t just about the past. It’s about celebrating progress and pushing forward. It’s a reminder that freedom didn’t arrive all at once for everyone. It came in stages – with effort, resistance, and perseverance.

It’s about honoring ancestors who endured, resisted, and ultimately rejoiced. It’s about storytelling, legacy, and joy. Most importantly, it’s a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come – and how far we still need to go.

So, What Is Juneteenth?

If someone asks, “What is Juneteenth?” you can tell them this: it’s a celebration of freedom, resilience, and Black history. It’s a day that remembers a long-overdue promise that was finally kept.

Whether you’re attending a festival, reading up on Juneteenth origins, or simply having a moment of reflection, celebrating Juneteenth means participating in a national story – one that’s still being written.