DENVER (KKTV) – Wednesday is not just the 19th of June, but Juneteenth National Independence Day!
Originating in Texas, where on June 19, 1865, Black Texans learned they were free, the day is now observed across the country as the end of slavery. President Joe Biden officially proclaimed June 19 a federal holiday in 2021, and Gov. Jared Polis followed suit the next year, making Colorado one of 28 states where Juneteenth is an official holiday.
“For more than 200 years, Black Coloradans and Americans have celebrated Juneteenth, not only as an end to slavery, but also as a day that represents freedom, hope and joy. It’s about time we officially recognize Juneteenth in Colorado law,” the governor said in 2022 upon signing legislation recognizing Juneteenth as Colorado’s 11th state holiday.
Tuesday, Colorado Lt. Gov. Dianne Primavera, flanked by members of the state legislator raised the Juneteenth flag at the Colorado State Capitol.
“Today, as we raise the Juneteenth flag, I am proud to commemorate this important American holiday. On Juneteenth, we celebrate and honor the joy that this holiday has embodied in the Black community for more than 150 years. This is an important reminder that we must continue working together to protect and expand our freedoms, and build a Colorado for all,” Primavera said.
As both a federal and state holiday, Coloradans can expect government offices and other entities to be shuttered Wednesday. That includes state and city offices, municipal court, mail services, and more.
The city of Colorado Springs announced the following closures:
- Administrative offices for Mountain Metropolitan Transit
- City Administration Building
- City Auditorium
- City Clerk
- City Hall
- Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum
- Deerfield, Hillside, Meadows Park and Westside Community Centers
- Municipal Court
- Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services Administrative Building
- Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site
- Sales Tax Office
- Sports Office at Memorial Park
- Therapeutic Recreation Program at Westside Community Center
Copyright 2024 KKTV. All rights reserved.
