For over 150 years, Juneteeth has been celebrated across the country to commemorate the day enslaved Black Americans in Texas first learned of their emancipation by the proclamation made by Abraham Lincoln. Since then, Juneteenth has become a time to celebrate the experience and pursuit of freedom and unity. 

In 2022, Governor Spencer J. Cox signed a law to make Juneteenth National Freedom Day a state holiday, a day commemorating the end of slavery in the U.S. This was made possible by Rep. Sandra Hollins, Utah’s first Black female legislator, who sponsored the bill to make this a reality. We also acknowledge the many leaders and contributors who bring awareness to the significance of this holiday, including Ms. Betty Sawyer of Project Success Coalition, who created the Juneteenth celebration in Utah 32 years ago.

Eager to learn more? Check out Utah Education Network for educational materials, books, videos, and lesson plans to start.