MN SR9

President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, freeing enslaved people.

Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas on June 19, 1865, announcing the end of the Civil War and slavery in the most remote slave state.

Juneteenth, combining "June" and "nineteenth," commemorates the end of slavery and is also known as Freedom Day, with celebrations dating back to 1866.

Juneteenth celebrations include reading the Emancipation Proclamation, singing traditional songs, reciting works by Black authors, prayer services, street fairs, cookouts, and park parties.

The Minnesota Senate recognizes the significance of Juneteenth to the African American population in Minnesota and its importance in promoting knowledge and appreciation of African American history and culture.