Honoring Juneteenth Independence Day
 

 

The earliest known public celebration of the end of slavery in the U.S. took place on June 19, 1865, in Galveston, Texas. Juneteenth is now observed annually across the country as a day of celebration, reflection, remembrance of ancestors — and dedication to helping the nation fulfill its ideals.

As
of May 2016, 45 of the 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia recognize Juneteenth as either a state holiday, ceremonial holiday, or day of observance. 

 

Learn more

History of Juneteenth


A Sampler of MIT Research and Education in African American and African Diaspora Studies

Black Matters: Introduction to African American Studies

History at MIT