Every year on June 19, many US states celebrate Emancipation Day or Freedom Day.
The historical prerequisite for the establishment of Emancipation Day was the event that occurred on this day in 1862, when President Abraham Lincoln passed a law abolishing slavery. Texas became the first state to declare this June day a public holiday since 1890.
The word «emancipation» in its modern meaning denotes the independence and equality of all people (regardless of skin color, gender and social status) in social, working and family life. In addition, the term also implies the right of women, not just men, to receive an education, to work in any position, to receive a decent salary, and the right to vote and be elected to state or municipal government.
The holiday of June 19 is also called Freedom Day or Juneteenth. June —June and ninetyenth — nineteenth). Currently, 41 U.S. states celebrate June 19 as either a state or national holiday On June 17, 2021, U.S. President Joe Biden signed legislation put forward by Congress to make Liberation Day a federal holiday.
African Americans celebrate Freedom Day most actively. On this day they organize performances with elements of traditional culture, as well as dances and songs. In general, on this holiday it is customary to hold various public educational and sporting events, and some people like to relax with friends or family in nature on this day.