Juneteenth Becomes a State Holiday in Nevada

By: Adonis Armstrong

Juneteenth, a day dedicated to acknowledging the liberation of enslaved African Americans, is rapidly approaching. Despite the passage of a federal bill in 2021 recognizing June 19 as a national holiday, only a limited number of states have embraced its observance on the state level.

Nevada joined the movement to officially recognize Juneteenth June 8th as Republican Gov. Joe Lombardo signed the bill into law. The decision was supported by local officials with a resounding vote of 40 to one in the state Assembly and 19 to two in the state Senate, as reported by Fox 5 Vegas. This development aligns Nevada with other states, such as Texas, New York, Virginia, and Washington, that have already designated Juneteenth as a paid federal holiday.

Originating in Texas, Juneteenth commemorates the significant moment when the final Black individuals who were enslaved received the long awaited news that they were no longer considered property. Although President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863 to grant freedom to enslaved people across the United States, it took until 1865 for many to learn of their emancipation.

Today, I was honored to sign AB 140, which officially made Juneteenth a state holiday in Nevada. Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States, and I’m proud that Nevada will now recognize this holiday on a state and federal level. pic.twitter.com/eDxLySbok0

— Governor Joe Lombardo (@JosephMLombardo) June 8, 2023

Nevada vote had the support of Democratic Assemblywoman Claire Thomas. “As the first state to ratify the 15th Amendment, which gave African Americans the right to vote, Nevada has a long and proud history of supporting civil rights. By designating Juneteenth as a state holiday, Nevada continues to honor that legacy and celebrate the progress that has been made in the fight for equality,” she stated. By designating Juneteenth as a state holiday, Nevada continues to honor that legacy and celebrate the progress that has been made in the fight for equality.

In addition to community leaders and officials, many celebrities have also used their platform to spread awareness about the historical significance of Juneteenth. Through various forms of activism, they have sought to educate and engage the public in recognizing and celebrating this important day in American history.

As Juneteenth approaches, the official recognition of this holiday in Nevada serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey towards equality and justice. It represents a collective effort to acknowledge the struggles of the past, celebrate the progress made, and commit to building a future that upholds the principles of freedom and equality for all.

---

YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:

SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA