Celebrating Juneteenth
Juneteenth—also known as Freedom Day, Jubilee Day, Liberation Day, and Emancipation Day—is the oldest known celebration of the end of slavery in the United States and has been celebrated every year since June 19, 1865.
Juneteenth was recognized as a federal holiday in 2021. Learning about Juneteenth is part of a broader education of the practice, impact, and legacy of slavery that speaks to Black history in this country—and therefore American history. It is a time to come together to acknowledge our history, celebrate Black freedom and achievement, embrace diversity, and continue to work to advance social justice and racial equity.
S:US acknowledges this important day and our collective commitment to promote racial equity. Since 1978, S:US has supported people and communities that have been marginalized, communities of color, communities impacted by poverty, people with developmental disabilities and their families, people with mental health and substance use challenges, and people with histories of incarceration.
Juneteenth also reminds us of the disproportionate impact that systemic health inequities have had on Black and communities of color in our city, our state, and across our country. We believe strongly that the lives of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color matter on Juneteenth and every day.
For more information about Juneteenth and the events that are happening in NYC on June 13-19, 2024, visit the resources below.
Brooklyn’s Juneteenth NY Celebration
National Museum of African American History & Culture