For the first time, Rhode Island will celebrate “Juneteenth” as a state holiday this year.
Last year on Juneteenth, Gov. Dan McKee signed legislation making the day as an official holiday.
“Today, Rhode Island makes a crucial and official recognition of the horrors and injustices of slavery,” said Governor McKee said in a press release at the time. “Making Juneteenth an official holiday in Rhode Island is an important act that acknowledges our past, highlights the progress we’ve made toward creating a more equal and just world, and underscores the work that lies ahead.”
The move came two years after it was declared a national holiday by way of the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, led by Sen. Ed Markey of Massachusetts.
Here’s what to know about the holiday.
What is Juneteenth?
Juneteenth is a commemoration for the end of U.S. slavery. It officially took place on June 19, 1865, when a Union general arrived in Galveston, Texas, to inform enslaved African Americans that the Civil War had ended, and they were free, according to History.com.
Although the Emancipation Proclamation was signed two years earlier, it applied only to areas under Confederate control — not border states or rebel areas under Union rule.
When is it observed these days?
It is still observed on June 19 every year.
Is it a national holiday?
In 2021, President Joe Biden signed legislation proclaiming Juneteenth a federal holiday.
According to the History Channel, “In 1979, Texas became the first state to make Juneteenth an official holiday; several others followed suit over the years.”
How is it celebrated?
According to the National Museum of African-American History & Culture, “Juneteenth celebrations…recognize the ongoing fight for human rights and equality and are commemorated through family cookouts, faith services, musical performances and storytelling.”
Are banks open on Juneteenth?
Like most federal holidays, you can expect your local banks and credit unions to be closed in observance of Juneteenth, so make sure you plan ahead if you need anything from your bank on Wednesday.
Are government offices open on Juneteenth?
No; all non-essential federal, state and city government offices are closed Wednesday, June 19, for the holiday.
Will I get mail on Juneteenth?
You won’t get your regular mail delivered on June 19 because the United States Postal Service will not be delivering.
However, you may still get deliveries: FedEx and UPS will be open and offering their usual services.
Will the Rhode Island DMV be open?
Now, that it’s a state holiday, the Rhode Island will not be open on Juneteenth this year.
