Description

In 2021, President Joe Biden signed a bill to designate June 19, or “Juneteenth,” as a federal holiday in the United States. On this day, federal employees (as well as The University of Texas at Austin staff) have the day off to honor and commemorate the significance of Juneteenth. 

What exactly is Juneteenth, and why do we mark its importance in the U.S.? This holiday’s roots can be traced back to the conclusion of the U.S. Civil War. 

Juneteenth Today 

Juneteenth, also known as “Freedom Day,” marks our nation’s second Independence Day, symbolizing the declaration of freedom for all Americans. Today, Juneteenth is celebrated across the U.S. as a day of freedom and hope.