Juneteenth
January 1, Monday
Celebrating Emancipation Day in Different Countries
USA - Juneteenth. In the United States, Emancipation Day, better known as Juneteenth, is celebrated on June 19. This day is associated with the events of 1865, when U.S. Army General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and declared the final emancipation of all slaves. Although slavery in the United States was officially abolished with the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, slaves continued to be held in the southern states until the arrival of the Union Army. Since 2021, Juneteenth has been recognized as an official federal holiday in the United States.
United Kingdom and the Caribbean - August 1: Emancipation Day in Caribbean countries such as Jamaica, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, and others is observed on August 1. The day commemorates the abolition of slavery in the British Empire, which occurred on August 1, 1834, when the Slavery Abolition Act came into force. However, full emancipation did not come immediately, as former slaves had to go through what was known as the apprenticeship system until 1838.
Canada - August 1: Emancipation Day is also observed in Canada on August 1, and commemorates the abolition of slavery in the British colonies in 1834. The day is important for Canadians of African descent, especially the descendants of those who fled to Canada via the Underground Railroad in search of freedom.
Haiti - January 1. Haiti was the first country to abolish slavery following a successful slave revolt in the early 19th century. On January 1, 1804, Haiti became the first independent republic created by former slaves after defeating the French colonial forces. This day is celebrated as Independence Day and Emancipation Day.
Ghana - March 25 (International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery). Ghana observes Emancipation Day on March 25, which coincides with the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Atlantic Slave Trade. This day serves as a reminder of the suffering of the millions of people who were victims of the slave trade.
Main Objectives and Celebration of Emancipation Day
Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery. The holiday serves as a reminder of the suffering of the millions of people who were enslaved, as well as those who fought for their freedom. It is an opportunity to pay tribute to their struggle and their sacrifice.
Support for Human Rights. Emancipation Day reminds us of the importance of protecting human rights and fighting against all forms of oppression, injustice and discrimination that still exist today.
Celebrating cultural heritage. This day celebrates the achievements and cultural heritage of the descendants of freed slaves who have made great contributions to the development of society, economy, culture and politics in their countries.
Educational activities. On this day, various educational programs and events are held to help people better understand the history of slavery, its consequences and current issues related to racism and inequality.
Juneteenth in other years
Juneteenth in other countries
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