CVUSD Celebrates Juneteenth Independence Day

The nineteenth of June, known as Juneteenth, commemorates the joyous events of June 19, 1865, when enslaved African Americans in Galveston Bay, Texas, learned they were free, more than two and a half years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation. Since then, Juneteenth has been celebrated in communities across the United States.

Juneteenth is a significant holiday that marks the end of slavery in the United States and honors African American freedom, resilience, and achievement. It serves as both a celebration of liberation and a reminder of the nation's ongoing pursuit of equality and justice.

The State of California has designated Juneteenth Independence Day as our country's second Independence Day in recognition of the emancipation of all enslaved people in the United States.

The United States Congress has designated June 19 as "Juneteenth Independence Day" in recognition of the historical significance of Juneteenth Independence Day to the United States and in order to support the continued nationwide celebration of Juneteenth Independence Day to provide an opportunity for the people of the United States to learn more about the past, to better understand and reckon with the experiences that have shaped the United States, and to recognize that the observance of the end of slavery is part of the history and heritage of the United States.

Juneteenth Independence Day celebrations are a time for reflection and rejoicing and are held to honor African American freedom while encouraging self-development and respect for all cultures.

At the May 20, 2026, Board of Education meeting, Adoption of Annual Resolution #25/26-46 Juneteenth Independence Day Celebration was approved.