SPRINGFIELD – Nearly five years ago, Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford made history when she championed legislation making Juneteenth an official Illinois state holiday. As the state marks that milestone anniversary, she is renewing her call for residents to celebrate the day and reflect on its profound meaning.
Lightford spearheaded House Bill 3922 in 2021, enshrining June 19 as Juneteenth National Freedom Day – a state holiday and a recognition that Black history is American history. This year, she is building on that legacy by encouraging communities across Illinois to honor the holiday's roots and its ongoing relevance.
“Juneteenth being a state holiday reminds us that freedom and racial equality have always been a hard-fought battle for Black Americans,” said Lightford (D-Maywood). “This day gives everyone an opportunity to celebrate Black culture, Black achievements and learn more about Black history.”
The holiday commemorates June 19, 1865, when federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation – more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln signed it in 1863, freeing the last enslaved people in the United States.
Over the past five years, Juneteenth has grown far beyond the celebration of emancipation, evolving into a statewide and national tribute to Black arts, culture and the enduring legacy of the civil rights movement.
“The struggle for our people to achieve full equity in Illinois and across the nation continues still to this day,” Lightford said. “Juneteenth recognizes our accomplishments, our achievements and our culture, and reminds us that our fight is not over.”
For a full list of Juneteenth events in the communities Lightford represents, click here.
