Arriving on this day in 1865, the Union Army announced the liberation of all enslaved people in Galveston, Texas. The anniversary of this fateful announcement — enforcing the Emancipation Proclamation issued by President Lincoln two-and-a-half years before — has since been celebrated each year as Juneteenth.

Juneteenth is the oldest known Black holiday in U.S. history and, as of last year, the newest federal holiday. It’s a day of reflective celebration honoring the history of Black struggle and progress. In celebrating that rich history today, we too must remember the fight for Black liberation and freedom is an ongoing one.

OPEIU is proud to honor the 157th celebration of Juneteenth. We wish for you and your loved ones a joyful, relaxing and reflective day.