Juneteenth, a newly declared federal holiday in the United States, marks the end of slavery in the country and is currently providing momentum to the symbolic push against racism in the country. Celebrated on June 19th, a flurry of rallies and parades are underway in the US calling for equality in the nation while celebrating the liberation of the African-American community.
Social media platforms are also being used to amplify the notion as multiple activists share and wish for a #HappyJuneteenth2021.
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Kate Gallego, the Mayor of Phoenix and a member of the Democratic party, signed a proclamation in recognition of Juneteenth and wrote on Twitter, “Today we reflect on our history, where we’ve come & on the work left to do to fulfill the promises of freedom, equality and opportunity.”
US government executives like President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, in addition to various federal bodies like the White House and Department of Homeland Security also wrote on their social media handles about the day. Senate majority leader Chuck Schumer was also on the list.
June 19th was declared as a federal holiday in the United States this week by signing an executive order. Before reaching Biden’s desk, the legislation garnered significant support amongst the US Congress.
