Juneteenth becomes newest state holiday in Colorado

Juneteenth is Colorado’s newest state holiday after Gov. Jared Polis signed the designation into law on Monday afternoon.

“Commemorating this holiday has us look at our history, but it’s also a chance to look forward and continue the fight for freedom, for equity and for dignity for everyone. Our state’s diversity is one of our greatest strengths, and this holiday is another step towards fulfilling the promise of a Colorado for all,” Polis said at the signing ceremony at Cleo Parker Robinson Dance in Denver’s Five Points neighborhood.

Juneteenth marks June 19, 1865, when enslaved Black people in Texas learned of their freedom, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.

“The end of slavery on a document is one thing, but the end of slavery in reality was another and deserves celebration,” Polis said.

Read more: https://coloradonewsline.com/briefs/juneteenth-becomes-newest-state-holiday-in-colorado/