Juneteenth Freedom Day Becomes Federal Holiday

Today marks a milestone in our nation’s history, indeed a Jubilee moment, as Juneteenth Freedom Day becomes a federal holiday. Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in America, one of the darkest periods our country — and our society — has experienced.

June 19, Juneteenth, is a time of celebration and reflection.

Medicine is built on a foundation of science with the purpose of revealing the causes of disease and methods of prevention and cure. However, the healing needed in our nation will not be found in medicine. It must come from within each of us and be shared with all.

The University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix is committed to intentionally addressing racism as a public health crisis. We join in celebrating this important step toward racial justice and healing.

The law signed yesterday by President Biden will go into effect immediately. Many federal offices will be closed today in observance of the holiday. The University of Arizona is reviewing ABOR policies, University policies and other applicable policies to determine the next steps. At this time, state offices and institutions, including the University of Arizona and the College of Medicine – Phoenix, will maintain standard operating hours.

Please join us in celebrating this important landmark in our history!

We invite you to participate in our Wildcat and Arizona communities' activities celebrating Juneteenth 2021:

• Tucson Juneteenth Festival at Dunbar – Saturday, June 19, from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (AZ time).
• Our Black is Beautiful Virtual Celebration with culture, history and dance – Saturday, June 19, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (AZ time).
• Valley of the Sun Juneteenth Celebration – Saturday, June 19, from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m. (AZ time).
• Step Afrika! Virtual Juneteenth Celebration – June 19, 5:00 p.m. (AZ time).
• Learn more: National Museum of African American History & Culture Virtual Exhibit and Juneteenth events.