Becomes the first new federal holiday since Martin Luther King Jr. Day, in 1983.
On June 19, we commemorate the emancipation of the last enslaved Black people in the United States. Despite the freedoms granted by the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, it was not able to be enforced in many places until two years later, following the end of the Civil War.
Yesterday President Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act (S. 475) into law, acknowledging the significance of the Juneteenth National Independence Day. This historical moment is a recognition of our collective past that offers the latest opportunity to be better as a nation.
The adverse ramifications of a dark period in our history still show themselves today. Wage disparities, lack of consistent and viable work opportunities, and unfair treatment are just a few issues that threaten Black communities across the country.
These issues are our issues—fights that the labor movement knows all too well.
The National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE) looks forward to continuing to do our part to support legislation that provides real opportunities and an improved work-life balance for all—especially those from underserved communities.
As our nation continues to grow and evolve, we hope that you will join us in being unapologetically present to have open dialogue, to listen, to learn, and appreciate the differences and realities of all our citizens. There is more work to be done.
Click here for more info on Juneteenth
Click here for more info on the impact of this new federal holiday on federal employees