Juneteenth Celebrations Across the US Mark End of Slavery
Event participants say current events strengthen resolve to be heard.
Juneteenth celebrations unfolded across the United States on Thursday, marking the day in 1865 when Union soldiers brought the news of freedom to enslaved Black people in Texas.
The holiday has been celebrated by Black Americans for generations and gained wider recognition after being designated a federal holiday in 2021.
This year's events come as tensions rise over issues such as diversity initiatives and travel bans.
In Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Robert Reid waved a large Juneteenth flag at the city’s African Burying Ground Memorial Park, where African drummers and dancers led the crowd in song and dance.
Jordyn Sorapuru, 18, visiting from California, called the large turnout important especially given current political climate.
The holiday's origins date back to General Order No. 3, issued on June 19, 1865, which declared all enslaved people in Texas free.
Events were planned throughout the day in Galveston, including a parade and celebration at Reedy Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore announced pardons for 6,938 cases of simple marijuana possession, which disproportionately affect the Black community.
In New Hampshire, events organized by the Black History Trail aimed to celebrate Juneteenth while highlighting contradictions in narratives about the nation’s founding fathers.
When asked about his stance on Juneteenth this year, President Trump remained silent compared to previous years when he issued statements commemorating the day.
The holiday has been celebrated by Black Americans for generations and gained wider recognition after being designated a federal holiday in 2021.
This year's events come as tensions rise over issues such as diversity initiatives and travel bans.
In Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Robert Reid waved a large Juneteenth flag at the city’s African Burying Ground Memorial Park, where African drummers and dancers led the crowd in song and dance.
Jordyn Sorapuru, 18, visiting from California, called the large turnout important especially given current political climate.
The holiday's origins date back to General Order No. 3, issued on June 19, 1865, which declared all enslaved people in Texas free.
Events were planned throughout the day in Galveston, including a parade and celebration at Reedy Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore announced pardons for 6,938 cases of simple marijuana possession, which disproportionately affect the Black community.
In New Hampshire, events organized by the Black History Trail aimed to celebrate Juneteenth while highlighting contradictions in narratives about the nation’s founding fathers.
When asked about his stance on Juneteenth this year, President Trump remained silent compared to previous years when he issued statements commemorating the day.
