Social Justice
Juneteenth declared a state holiday In New York
New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has signed a new legislation declaring Juneteenth as an official state holiday.
New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has signed a new legislation declaring Juneteenth, a day commemorating the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States, as an official state holiday.
Juneteenth is now a state holiday in New York
The new law celebrates Juneteenth, while encouraging continuous self-development and respect for all cultures.
“I am incredibly proud to sign into law this legislation declaring Juneteenth an official holiday in New York State, a day which commemorates the end to slavery in the United States,” the governor said. “This new public holiday will serve as a day to recognize the achievements of the Black community, while also providing an important opportunity for self-reflection on the systemic injustices that our society still faces today.”
Ending of slavery
Juneteenth is a celebration in remembrance of June 19, 1865, when Black slaves in Galveston, Texas, were officially told that they were free. The day came nearly six months after Congress passed the 13th amendment, which abolished slavery.
In September, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation, designating the third Friday in June as a state and public holiday, known as Juneteenth Day.
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