Old Bridge Township, NJ- Old Bridge Township commemorates Saturday, June 19, 2021 as Juneteenth, a day of freedom and liberation. Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States.
President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation took effect on January 1st, 1863 which outlawed slavery in the rebelling states. It was not until June 19, 1865, that the enslaved people of Galveston Texas learned of their freedom upon the arrival of the Union army. The following year, the first official Juneteenth celebrations took place in Texas and have continued to this day.
“Juneteenth is an important day of recognition for this country. It is a day to remind us to work toward a better and inclusive society for all. We must take this opportunity to honor the principles of freedom and celebrate the unity of our nation,” stated Mayor Owen Henry.
Juneteenth has grown from a national observance to a global one. Worldwide celebrations include festivals, parades, picnics, educational lectures and vigils. These modern celebrations focus upon teaching African American culture while honoring a monumental change in American history.
###
Please visit the Township’s website at oldbridge.com and follow us on social media at facebook.com/OBTOWN and on Twitter @obtownnj where we are posting official Township news and information.