When was juneteenth made a holiday | What is juneteenth and why is it important

Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, is a holiday celebrated in the United States on June 19th every yearJuneteenth commemorates the arrival of Union troops in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865, and the subsequent announcement of general orders by Union General Gordon Granger that all enslaved peoples in Texas were free. This event marked the effective end of slavery in the United States, although the Emancipation Proclamation had been issued more than two years prior.

Juneteenth is important because it recognizes the end of slavery and celebrates the freedom and contributions of Black Americans. It is a reminder of the struggle and resilience of the Black community in the face of oppression and racism. It is also an opportunity for learning and reflection on the ongoing fight for racial justice and equality in America. 

Many people mark the holiday by attending parades, festivals, and community gatherings. It is a time to honor Black culture, history, and achievements, and to engage in conversations about the continued fight for racial justice. Juneteenth has been celebrated for years by the Black community, but it has gained broader recognition and support in recent years, with efforts to make it a federal holiday.

Juneteenth food traditions vary depending on the region and culture, but some common dishes include barbecue, fried chicken, collard greens, macaroni and cheese, cornbread, sweet potato pie, and red drinks such as strawberry soda or Kool-Aid. Some people also choose to have a communal potluck, where everyone brings a dish to share.

Juneteenth is important because it commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. On June 19, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced that all slaves were now free, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. Juneteenth has become a day of celebration, remembrance, and education for African Americans. It is a time for reflection on the struggle for freedom and an opportunity to honor ancestors and community leaders who fought for civil rights. Food is an important part of Juneteenth celebrations, as it is a way to come together and share culture and heritage. Many recipes are steeped in tradition and have been passed down through generations, helping to preserve history and connection to the past.