June 19th, also known as Juneteenth, is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. In 1865, on June 19th, Union soldiers led by Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas with news that the war had ended and that all enslaved people were free. The Emancipation Proclamation had little impact on Texans shortly after its issuance. It wasn't until after the surrender of General Lee in April of 1865 and the arrival of General Granger's regiment that the forces were strong enough to influence and overcome resistance.
Although Juneteenth was not celebrated by everyone until the 1960s, it has become an important holiday for African Americans who want to celebrate freedom and commemorate their cultural heritage. It's also a time when people of all races can come together and honor their shared history in America.
We have taken the liberty to highlight some Juneteenth events going on around the City of Mobile and Prichard.