A blending of the words "June" and "nineteenth," Juneteenth—also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day—memorializes the date enslaved Americans in Texas learned they had been granted their freedom. Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States.

On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers, led by Major General Gordon Granger, arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce that all previously enslaved people in Texas were free. Although this was two and a half years after President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation – which took effect January 1, 1863 – this day marked the true end of slavery, as news of the Proclamation was delivered to that town.

In 1980, Texas was the first state to make Juneteenth a state holiday. Forty-eight states and the District of Columbia recognize Juneteenth either as a state or ceremonial holiday. Last year, both the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation to establish June 19 as a federal holiday, and President Joe Biden signed the bill into law.

This Sunday is Juneteenth, a day to reflect, take constructive action, and celebrate African-American achievements, while encouraging respect for all cultures.

Industry's DE&I Commitment

EEI’s member companies are committed to advancing racial and social justice and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in their companies and across our industry. Building on programs and work already underway at member companies, EEI launched an industry-wide DEI initiative in September 2020 that integrates workforce development and DEI priorities into one strategic initiative. In June 2021, the initiative reached 100-percent participation. Member companies are taking meaningful actions to advance their DEI commitments.

Learn more by visiting EEI's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion webpage.

Additional Resources

What Is Juneteenth? PBS.org

What Is Juneteenth? The History Channel

The Historical Legacy of Juneteenth, Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture