Laura Freeman, a guest artist and illustrator, has designed today’s Google Doodle, which honors Juneteenth 2023. Juneteenth marks the day in 1865 when Black enslaved individuals in Galveston, Texas, were informed of their freedom through the Emancipation Proclamation. This executive order, signaling the end of slavery in Confederate states, also marked the official conclusion of the Civil War.

Despite the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation by Abraham Lincoln in 1863, several Confederate-controlled states, including Texas, persisted in their opposition. Union troops, while marching toward the port city of Galveston, issued the renowned General Orders, Number 3, which declared freedom for hundreds of thousands of Black Texans. In 1980, Juneteenth was established as a state holiday in Texas, and in June 2021, it became a federal holiday nationwide.

On Juneteenth, Black Americans come together for celebrations and gatherings to honor the struggles of their ancestors and to continue the ongoing efforts towards a more just and equitable nation. The artwork in today’s Google Doodle showcases symbols of freedom, such as a dove, the Juneteenth flag, and Kente cloth patterns, representing a community celebration spanning multiple generations.

Juneteenth 2023: How to Celebrate the Federal Holiday

Understanding the Significance of Juneteenth

The Juneteenth holiday has held a special place in the hearts of Black communities for over 150 years. It commemorates the year 1865 when enslaved individuals in Galveston, Texas, were informed of their emancipation. This momentous event occurred approximately two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation.

Juneteenth as a Widely Recognized Federal Holiday

Since its official declaration as a federal holiday in 2021, Juneteenth has gained broader recognition beyond Black America. This means that more individuals are granted time off from work or school to observe the holiday. Moreover, numerous street festivals, fairs, concerts, and other events are organized to celebrate the occasion.

Exploring Ways to Celebrate the Federal Holiday

Finding Local Juneteenth Events

To celebrate the federal holiday, you can explore a wide variety of events taking place in major cities and suburban areas by conducting an online search. These events come in various scales and atmospheres, including food trucks, art and craft exhibits, parades, and festive gatherings resembling carnivals. Many celebrations also feature professionals from healthcare, finance, and community resources. Additionally, concerts and fashion shows highlight and honor Black creativity and excellence. Numerous organizations and universities host panels to provide opportunities for reflection on the historical significance of Juneteenth.

Embracing Juneteenth Cuisine

Red has always played a significant role in Juneteenth cuisine, in addition to the customary barbecue. This color symbolizes the bloodshed and sacrifices of enslaved ancestors. Traditional Juneteenth menus often include dishes like watermelon, red velvet cake, barbecued ribs, or other red meats. Red drinks such as red Kool-Aid and fruit punch are also commonly served.

Joining in the Celebration

Juneteenth offers an opportunity for all US citizens to engage in the festivities and honor the historical significance of the holiday. By attending local events and embracing Juneteenth cuisine, individuals can participate in the celebration and show their support for a more inclusive and equitable society.

15 Interesting Fact about Juneteenth Holiday 2023

1. Juneteenth commemorates the day, June 19, 1865, when enslaved individuals in Galveston, Texas, were finally informed of their emancipation, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued.
2. The term “Juneteenth” is a combination of the words “June” and “nineteenth,” representing the date on which the holiday is celebrated.
3. Juneteenth is also known as Freedom Day, Emancipation Day, and Jubilee Day.
4. The Emancipation Proclamation, issued by President Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863, declared the freedom of enslaved people in Confederate states during the Civil War.
5. Although the Emancipation Proclamation had been in effect for two years, it took the arrival of Union troops in Texas to enforce the proclamation and bring the news of freedom to enslaved individuals.
6. Texas was the last Confederate state to receive the news of emancipation, making Juneteenth particularly significant for the state’s Black community.
7. Juneteenth celebrations often include parades, picnics, barbecues, music performances, historical reenactments, and readings of the Emancipation Proclamation.
8. Red is a prominent color associated with Juneteenth, symbolizing resilience, sacrifice, and the bloodshed of enslaved individuals.
9. The Juneteenth flag, created by Ben Haith in 1997, features a bursting star in the center, representing a new freedom and a new beginning.
10. Juneteenth celebrations showcase African-American culture, including music genres such as gospel, jazz, and blues, as well as traditional African dances and drumming.
11. Juneteenth has been recognized as a state holiday in Texas since 1980, and it became a federal holiday in the United States in June 2021.
12. Juneteenth celebrations often include educational activities and discussions about African-American history, civil rights, and the ongoing pursuit of equality.
13. In addition to the United States, Juneteenth is also celebrated in various countries, including Canada, Ghana, and Nigeria, among others.
14. Organizations and communities use Juneteenth as an opportunity to promote economic empowerment, support Black-owned businesses, and address social justice issues.
15. Juneteenth holds deep historical and cultural significance, serving as a reminder of the resilience, perseverance, and ongoing struggle for freedom and equality in the African-American community.