Juneteenth is an annual holiday that celebrates the day that the news of the Emancipation Proclamation was finally delivered to those who were still enslaved in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865—two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. Today, we observe Juneteenth to remember our nation's history, and to celebrate Black culture in our communities.

Today is the first time Juneteenth is recognized as an official state holiday in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and, as of two days ago, it is now formally recognized as a Federal Holiday. Though Juneteenth falls on a Saturday this year, going forward, the BSA will close its offices and gallery on June 19 in honor of the day. The BSA encourages its members to learn about, reflect upon, and celebrate this important day in our nation's history.

To learn more about Juneteenth, please visit: juneteenth.com.

We have compiled the following list of additional resources related to Juneteenth celebrations in Boston and beyond.

Celebrating Juneteenth in Boston

Juneteenth and the meaning of Black liberation in Boston

How Massachusetts communities are celebrating the state’s first official Juneteenth

What Is Juneteenth?