Who Put Juneteenth as a Holiday?
Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, is a holiday that celebrates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. The holiday commemorates the day in 1865 when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce the end of slavery, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. The question that often arises is, who put Juneteenth as a holiday? The answer to this question is not straightforward, as the holiday’s establishment involved various individuals and organizations over the years. This article will explore the history behind the creation of Juneteenth and the key figures who played a role in making it a recognized holiday.
Origins of Juneteenth
The roots of Juneteenth can be traced back to the aftermath of the Civil War. After the Union Army captured Galveston, Texas, Major General Gordon Granger read General Order No. 3, which declared that all slaves in Texas were free. This event took place on June 19, 1865. The news of freedom spread rapidly, and African Americans in Texas began celebrating the day with festivals, gatherings, and other festivities. This spontaneous celebration became the foundation of Juneteenth as we know it today.
Early Advocates
While the exact individuals who first proposed Juneteenth as a holiday are not well-documented, several African American leaders and activists played significant roles in promoting the holiday. One of the most notable figures was Mary B. Talbot, a former slave who became a prominent educator and civil rights advocate. In the early 20th century, Talbot and other African American women in Houston organized the first Juneteenth celebration in Texas. They worked tirelessly to promote the holiday and ensure that it would be recognized and celebrated by future generations.
State Recognition
Juneteenth gained state recognition in Texas in 1980 when Governor Bill Clements signed a proclamation declaring it as a state holiday. This was a significant milestone for the holiday, as it demonstrated the growing support for Juneteenth and its significance in the state’s history. Since then, several other states have followed suit, with 47 states currently recognizing Juneteenth as a holiday. The push for state recognition was often led by African American organizations, such as the National Juneteenth Observance Foundation, which continues to work towards the holiday’s recognition and celebration across the nation.
Federal Recognition
In June 2021, President Joe Biden signed a proclamation making Juneteenth a federal holiday. This historic decision marked the first time that a federal holiday had been established to honor the achievements and struggles of a specific racial or ethnic group in the United States. The federal recognition of Juneteenth is a testament to the hard work and dedication of countless individuals who have fought for the holiday’s establishment over the years.
Conclusion
The journey of Juneteenth from a spontaneous celebration to a recognized holiday is a testament to the resilience and determination of African Americans. While it is challenging to pinpoint a single individual or organization responsible for putting Juneteenth as a holiday, the collective efforts of many have contributed to its significance and widespread recognition. As Juneteenth continues to grow in popularity, it serves as a powerful reminder of the struggles and triumphs of African Americans and their enduring legacy in the United States.
