The City of Myrtle Beach recognizes Juneteenth

Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration commemorating the ending of slavery in the United States. On June 19, 1865, Union Soldiers landed in Galveston, Texas, with news that slaves were free. The announcement came two and a half years following President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863. The announcement of freedom meant that Africans were now recognized as Americans.

Although African-Americans were not yet provided equal voting, working and ownership rights, among countless other rights, the announcement of freedom served as the first step forward to a better future. Today, Juneteenth, is a celebration of hope, and we as a city and community continue to have hope for progress worldwide.