GALVESTON – As the nation prepares to commemorate Juneteenth, it’s important to reflect on its deep historical significance and the role Galveston, Texas, played in this pivotal moment in American history.

Juneteenth—named by combining “June” and “nineteenth”—marks the day in 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Galveston learned they were free, more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863. On June 19, 1865, Union troops arrived in Galveston to enforce the proclamation, officially ending slavery in Texas.

The following year, the first Juneteenth celebration was held in Texas. In 1980, it became a recognized state holiday, and in 2021, President Joe Biden signed legislation making Juneteenth a federal holiday—the first new national holiday since Martin Luther King Jr. Day was established in 1983.

Traditionally, Juneteenth celebrations have included prayer services, parades, educational programs, family reunions, music, and food—honoring the resilience and culture of African American communities.

Local Celebrations in Galveston
This year, Galveston will host several commemorative events:

• Juneteenth at the 1938 Menard House
  A free event featuring a living history reenactment and stories of the Underground Railroad will take place at the historic Menard House, located at 1605 33rd Street.
• Juneteenth Exhibit at the Galveston Historical Foundation
  An educational exhibit exploring the history of Juneteenth is currently on display at the Galveston Historical Foundation, located at 2228 Broadway Street. The exhibit is open Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. More information and tickets are available at galvestonhistory.org.

Juneteenth remains a powerful reminder of delayed justice and the ongoing journey toward equality. Whether through education, reflection, or celebration, communities across the country and right here in Galveston continue to honor this defining day in American history.