Juneteenth: A Day of Celebration and Recognition
A Historical Milestone
Juneteenth, formerly known as "Emancipation Day," celebrates the second independence day in America. Three years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued, on June 19, 1865, the enslaved people in Texas finally learned of their freedom.
A Federal Holiday
In 2021, Juneteenth became the latest federal holiday in the US, the first to be approved since Martin Luther King Jr. Day in 1983. It is a day to commemorate the end of slavery and celebrate the freedom and equality of all Americans.
Bank Closures
While banks are not obligated to close on federal holidays, many choose to do so. On Juneteenth 2023, the Federal Reserve banks will be closed, which means that most banks will also be closed, including Bank of America, Chase, Citibank, and Wells Fargo.
Federal Reserve Bank Holiday
Juneteenth is a Federal Reserve bank holiday, meaning that the organization that regulates the financial system will be observing the holiday. This means that banks that are members of the Federal Reserve System will be closed on Juneteenth.
Observing Juneteenth
There are many ways to observe Juneteenth, including attending parades, festivals, and historical reenactments. It is also a day to reflect on the history of slavery and the ongoing fight for racial justice and equality.
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