Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the end of legal slavery in the United States. The Columbus Monument Corp. recognizes and celebrates this important day in the history of our county.
Although the Emancipation Proclamation was issued on January 1, 1863, the news did not reach enslaved Black people in Galveston, Texas, until June 19, 1865, when Union Major Gordon Granger read General Order Number 3, it contained the important words, “all slaves are free”, causing impromptu celebrations across the state as the long-delayed news spread.
The newly freed people in Galveston celebrated after the announcement, and the following year, freedmen and freedwomen organized the first of what became the annual celebration of “Jubilee Day” on June 19, 1866 in Texas. Over time, the annual celebration spread from the Black community in Texas, and is now recognized by all 50 US states, and the District of Columbia.
Juneteenth celebrations focus on education, history, self-improvement, culture, and pride. It marks a day of liberation, resilience, and fortitude for Black Americans, and is a day that offers everyone an opportunity to come together to celebrate the achievements of the Black community.
