WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator John Kerry today released the following statement on Juneteenth:

“Today we celebrate Juneteenth-- a day commemorating freedom, achievement and the ending of slavery. It is hard to believe that it took months after the Civil War and years following the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation before slaves in Galveston, Texas learned of their freedom. Now the United States Senate has voted unanimously to recognize Juneteenth Independence Day and all its stands for. This is a day to reflect on the past and recommit to the journey still to be traveled until we arrive at the day when the full measure of equal opportunity, freedom, and liberty are afforded to all our citizens.”

Juneteenth, also known as Emancipation Day, is a holiday observed in 27 states. It commemorates the announcement of the abolition of slavery in Texas. In 1980, the Texas legislature declared it an official day. Massachusetts was the 24th state to observe and celebrate the holiday.

###