juneteenth is a holiday commemorating the emancipation of slavery in the united states, which took effect on june 19, 1865. the date marks the day union army general gordon granger issued general order no. 3 in galveston, texas, declaring that all enslaved people in the state were to be set free.
this year, the city of galveston is hosting its annual juneteenth festival and celebration on june 17 and 18. the event will be held at the historical grounds of mcguire dent recreational center, known today as menard park. participants can enjoy food, vendors, and music, as well as various cultural exhibits and historical presentations. there will also be a crowning ceremony for the 2023 galveston county lil mr. juneteenth prince and lil ms. juneteenth princess, as well as the father of the year award.
as part of the celebration, visitors can explore the history and culture surrounding juneteenth in galveston. the "absolute equality" mural, painted last year by artist reginald adams, will be displayed at the osterman building, marking the site where the announcement of the emancipation proclamation was made. this location plays a significant role in the holiday's history, as it was one of the places where general order no. 3 was read.
juneteenth is a time to reflect on the progress made in racial equality and social justice, as well as to honor the contributions of african american ancestors. galveston's commitment to preserving its rich history and culture is evident through the array of events and exhibits planned for this year's juniorenteenth festival and celebration.