Juneteenth (June 19): Freedom Day

A federal holiday since 2021, Juneteenth (June 19) honors the day in 1865  when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas were informed that “in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free.”  The order was issued by Union Major General Gordon Granger, who arrived on June 19, 1865 to take command of 2,000 troops in Texas and enforce the terms of emancipation.

Typically celebrated through local, community-focused celebrations, this day is also referred to as Juneteenth Independence Day, Freedom Day, or Emancipation Day.

In 2021, Cascadia Health began recognizing and observing June 19 as a regular calendar holiday.

Oregon’s Juneteenth celebration was founded 50 years ago by the late and beloved community leader and organizer Clara Peoples. In 1945, Peoples introduced the tradition from Muskogee, Oklahoma, to her co-workers at the Kaiser Shipyards in Portland. Upon moving to Portland in that same year, Clara Peoples was surprised to learn that Juneteenth was unknown in this part of the country. She introduced the holiday to her co-workers at the Kaiser Shipyards during their break being the first Juneteenth Celebration in Oregon. Later, Peoples helped to initiate Portland’s annual citywide Juneteenth celebration in 1972.

Every year, our Juneteenth Oregon celebrations begin with a parade, followed by an array of festivities including live music and entertainment, art, food, educational booths, cultural exhibitions, community resources and a children’s play area.

Source: Juneteenthor.com