Encyclopedia of Diversity and Social Justice - A-H by 
African-American Holidays, Festivals, and Celebrations by 
Encyclopedia of African American History, 1896 to the Present by Juneteenth, an emancipation celebration, is recognized all over the United States. On June 19, 1865, Union Army officer Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the emancipation of all enslaved people in Texas. Thus was established one of the most enduring Emancipation Day celebrations in the United States, popularly known as Juneteenth, however African American enslavement did not end until the 13th Amendment. Passed by Congress on January 31st, 1865, and ratified on December 6, 1865, the 13th Amendment abolished slavery in the United States.
