Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in America, a celebration of freedom, but its history is complex.

1863–The Emancipation Proclamation declared freedom for over 3 million enslaved Black people but news took years to spread.

1865–General Order #3 was issued to inform enslaved people in Texas they were free; months after the end of the Civil War.

June 19th, 1865—Enslaved black people in TX finally hear about their freedom after Union couriers arrive in Galveston.

After a year of hearing the news, formerly enslaved Black people started celebrating Jubilee Day or “Juneteenth” in Texas.

On June 19 we honor the legacy of Black Americans. We celebrate how far we've come and acknowledge how far we have to go.