Juneteenth -- June 19, which commemorates the end to slavery and celebrates Black and African American freedom and achievements -- is the newest state holiday in support of expanding exploration of diversity, equity and inclusion.
On June 19, 1865, news of liberation came to Texas more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation went into effect on January 1, 1863. This announcement launched a celebration, which became an annual event growing in popularity over the years.
Pat Clark of SUNY Oswego's English and creative writing faculty will be among the panelists for SUNY's honoring of Juneteenth with "Freedom Day: Celebrating Juneteenth and Pride Together" from 3 to 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 17. Online registration is available for this virtual event, which will feature members of the SUNY family discussing and exploring themes related to the celebration of Juneteenth during Pride.
Earlier this week, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed legislation to make Juneteenth a federal holiday as well, although it still needs approval from the House of Representatives to become law.
The following links offer more ways to celebrate, resources and historic content for this holiday: