June 19 marks the anniversary of Juneteenth, the day in 1865 when enslaved people in Texas finally learned they were free, two-and-a-half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation.
“In amazement and disbelief, the 250,000 former slaves in Texas learned that they had been freed by the Emancipation Proclamation, which could not be enforced until the war was over... Shocked, disoriented, most likely fearful of an uncertain future in which they could do as they pleased, the liberated slaves of Texas celebrated. Their moment of jubilee was spontaneous and ecstatic and began a tradition of marking freedom on Juneteenth” (Smithsonian Magazine).
Juneteenth became a federal holiday on June 17, 2021 (VOA).
Learn more about Juneteenth and join the celebration with library events and resources.
Library Events
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Juneteenth: More than a Day 2026 - ,
Join us for a day of culture, community, celebration and reflection. Enjoy music, networking, a delicious selection of free food, and local vendors as we honor African American emancipation day. Come celebrate unity with us. Everyone is welcome! -
Juneteenth at the Beach, opens a new window - Friday, June 19, 11:00am - 2:00pm at Edmonds Waterfront Center, opens a new window
The annual Festival of Freedom event will include free food, book-reading circles for children, storytelling, music and a free screening of the special movie "John Lewis: Good Trouble," with unlimited popcorn. This event is presented by Lift Every Voice Legacy and co-sponsored by Sno-Isle Libraries.
Recommended Reads
First Freedom: The Story Of Opal Lee And Juneteenth
Black Freedom: A Visual History Of Juneteenth And Emancipation Days
Online Resources
- Black Freedom Struggle - Browse primary source documents from specific time periods in U.S. history marked by the opposition African Americans have faced on the road to freedom.
- Juneteenth | Gale U.S. History Online Collection - Read about the history of Juneteenth and explore recent news coverage of the holiday.
More to Explore
- Juneteenth: A Celebration of Freedom | National Park Service - Read an overview of the historic events culminating in Juneteenth Celebrations.
- Juneteenth | National Museum of African American History & Culture - View recorded events and genealogical resources from the Smithsonian.
- Juneteenth | Northwest African American Museum (NAAM), opens a new window - Lean more about community Juneteenth events hosted by NAAM.
- Juneteenth Community Celebration 2026 | NAACP Snohomish, opens a new window - Get details about Snohomish County's annual Freedom Festival event.
