ALBANY — Gov. Andrew Cuomo recently signed into law legislation that officially designates Juneteenth as an official public holiday in New York State.
The new law celebrates Juneteenth, a day which commemorates the end to slavery and celebrates Black and African American freedom and achievements, while encouraging continuous self-development and respect for all cultures. Juneteenth is observed on June 19.
Earlier this year, the governor had issued an executive order marking Juneteenth — the commemoration of the official emancipation of African Americans throughout the U.S. — an official holiday for state employees. Some municipalities also recognized the holiday.
