Juneteenth

American  

[joon-teenth] / ˈdʒunˈtinθ /

noun

1. June 19, a U.S. holiday celebrating the end of slavery in the United States and commemorating the emancipation of the last enslaved African Americans, in Texas, on June 19, 1865.

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Usage

What is Juneteenth? Juneteenth is a U. S. holiday that commemorates the anniversary of the day (June 19, 1865) on which enslaved African Americans in Texas became some of the last enslaved people in the U. S. to be informed that slavery had been abolished. Juneteenth is also often observed as a time to commemorate the end of chattel slavery in the U. S. Observance of Juneteenth often involves celebratory events and gatherings, especially among African Americans. Observance of the day also often involves events and programs focused on education about and discussion of the legacy of slavery in the U. S., including the ongoing struggle to dismantle systemic racism in U. S. society. Juneteenth was adopted as a U. S. federal holiday in 2021, officially called Juneteenth National Independence Day. It is sometimes also called Emancipation Day, Freedom Day, Jubilee Day, and Black Independence Day. Visit our article to learn more about how Juneteenth is observed and celebrated.

Etymology

Origin of Juneteenth

First recorded in 1935–40; June + (nine)teenth

Example Sentences

Previously, Martin Luther King Jr Day and Juneteenth were both deemed fee-free entry days by the Biden administration.

From BBC • Dec. 6, 2025

The city prioritizes adaptive recreation programs; hosts celebrations to honor Lunar New Year, Juneteenth and Diwali; and has an International Festival that recognizes the city’s diverse residents.

From MarketWatch • Oct. 29, 2025

Kendrick Lamar, Ledisi and others are creating the soundtrack for this cultural inflection point and for the legacy of Juneteenth.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 19, 2025

While the institution of slavery enabled this country to quickly become a global power, studies show the largest economic gains in the history of the country came from slavery’s ending — otherwise known as Juneteenth.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 19, 2025

Tori had come back out a few moments later, saying that Brandon wasn’t feeling well and was going to skip the Juneteenth Festival.

From "The Parker Inheritance" by Varian Johnson