Originally published: . Volume 11, No. 7. Source pages: 3.
In June, Gov. Edwards declared June 19, 2020, as Juneteenth Observance Day in Louisiana to celebrate the day in 1865 when the last remaining enslaved African Americans were freed. "On Juneteenth, we celebrate the end of slavery in America and we honor the history and contributions of African Americans in our country. Juneteenth is a celebration of freedom and justice and it is a reminder of the strength and resolve of African Americans throughout history," Gov. Edwards said. "Honoring Juneteenth gives us all an opportunity to develop a greater and deeper understanding and appreciation of the experiences of African Americans. As we take time to reflect on June- teenth today, may we all recommit ourselves to the on- going fight for equity and justice." In 2003, the state Legislature recognized in statute, the third Saturday in June as Juneteenth Day, the oldest African American holiday, throughout Louisiana.
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