Did you know Juneteenth's origins happened here in Texas, specifically four hours southeast of San Antonio in Galveston Bay?

What is Juneteenth?

The Emancipation Proclamation became law on Jan. 1, 1863, but the news took two years to spread to Texas. It wasn't until June 19, 1865 when Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, where the remaining 250,000 enslaved people were liberated.

In 1979, the state of Texas began to recognize Juneteenth as a holiday, while the City of San Antonio adopted the holiday in 2021.

How can I get involved?

Here are a few organizations and community resources devoted to honoring + celebrating our local Black community:

Juneteenth lands on Thursday, June 19, however, locals can get involved all week. Check out these events happening across the 210:

SAAACAM Green Book Civil Rights Bus Tour | 1-3:30 p.m. | Brackenridge Parking Garage | $50 | This historical tour will uncover the stories of African American entrepreneurship, resilience, community, and travel.

See more events curated by Juneteenth San Antonio.