Key information about Juneteenth that you should know
How Is Juneteenth Celebrated?
Also known as Emancipation Day, Juneteenth Independence Day, and Black Independence Day, celebrations of Juneteenth began on the first anniversary of the event. Despite facing segregation laws that restricted public celebrations, Juneteenth festivities moved to rural areas, as described on Juneteenth.com. Families would come together for prayer and barbecues, with some even making pilgrimages back to Galveston to honor the occasion.
With Black community members becoming landowners, properties were donated for Juneteenth celebrations. In 1872, Rev. Jack Yates purchased 10 acres of land in Houston to create Emancipation Park, according to Juneteenth.com.
According to NBC News, Juneteenth celebrations are now held in most states. Traditionally in the South, these celebrations include picnics, rodeos, church ceremonies, and educational services for children.