In 2021, President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, officially making June 19 a federal holiday. Just the day prior, Governor David Ige signed SB 939 recognizing Juneteenth, making Hawaii the 49th state to do so.

What is Juneteenth?

Juneteenth is short for “June Nineteenth,” which marks the day in 1865 the end of slavery was announced in Galveston, Texas, putting into effect President Abraham Lincoln’s 1863 Emancipation Proclamation.

To learn more about the history and significance of Juneteenth, visit one of the many informative websites, including:

• PBS Hawaii What Is Juneteenth?
• NAACP Legal Defense Fund Juneteenth 
• National Geographic Resource Library

Is Juneteenth a holiday?

June 19 is a Federal holiday, but is not recognized as a State holiday in Hawaii. Since June 19, 2022 falls on a Sunday, it will be observed on Monday, June 20, 2022. Many banks will be closed, as will the Post Office, and Federal agency offices. Individual employers may choose to observe the holiday or not.

Hawaii Employers Council will be closed on Monday, June 20 in observance of Juneteenth.

How should we celebrate Juneteenth?

Employers should carefully consider their approach to Juneteenth. While Juneteenth may be a day of celebration for some, others are also reminded of the racial injustice that still exists over 150 years later.  Whether or not they provide a day off from work to their employees, employers may encourage education about the history and significance of the holiday. Recognition of Juneteenth should be respectful and inclusive of differences among employees.