Nation Celebrates Juneteenth with Events and Reflections
On June 19, 2025, Americans nationwide marked Juneteenth, commemorating the day in 1865 when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, learned of their emancipation, more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. The holiday, recognized federally since 2021, was observed with a diverse array of celebrations, including festivals, parades, educational forums, and cultural showcases in cities from New York to Atlanta and the Bay Area.
In New York, the Empire State Building was illuminated in red, black, and green, symbolizing Black liberation and heritage. Atlanta hosted its 13th annual Juneteenth parade and music festival, drawing large crowds and featuring performances highlighting Black history and resilience. Across the Bay Area and New Hampshire, events ranged from gospel choir concerts and African drumming ceremonies to history tours and panel discussions focused on reclaiming the past and shaping the future.
President Joe Biden attended a commemorative service at Reedy Chapel Church in Texas, emphasizing themes of unity and progress. In contrast, former President Donald Trump drew criticism after publicly questioning the growing number of federal holidays, sparking debate over the significance of Juneteenth and other commemorations.
Despite reports from festival organizers about challenges in securing funding due to a national backlash against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, turnout at Juneteenth events remained robust. Many participants and speakers noted the heightened urgency of this year’s celebrations, set against a backdrop of national debates over voting rights, educational access, and the meaning of freedom and citizenship.
Juneteenth’s legacy continues to serve as both a celebration of liberation and a call to confront ongoing racial injustice. Organizers and attendees alike reflected on the enduring struggle for true equality, underscoring the holiday’s growing significance in American society.