Juneteenth
Juneteenth holds special meaning for communities throughout the U.S., but the relevance of this holiday hits close to home for Houstonians.
It was on June 19, 1865 that Union General Gordon Granger and troops reached Galveston and declared that all enslaved people were emancipated by General Order No. 3. This event took place more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. Still, Granger’s order was a catalyst to free more than 250,000 enslaved Texans.
In 1980, Texas began recognizing Juneteenth as an official holiday. By 2021, June 19 became a federal holiday. Its popularity continues to grow as does its significance in the lives of so many Americans.
Although the University of Houston will close on June 19 in observance of Juneteenth, the Cougar community will still commemorate this special day through campus events and activities.
Juneteenth Celebration Events
Juneteenth Gallery and Celebration
Center for Student Advocacy and Community11:00 am - 1:30 pm | Student Center North 2nd Floor Lounge
Come to the second floor of the Student Center North and check-in at the Center for Student Advocacy and Community and get a free t-shirt (while supplies last), cake, and teacakes for UH students faculty and staff. Juneteenth Gallery will be on display!
Juneteenth Trivia and Social
The Black Leadership Network4:30 pm - 6:00 pm | Student Center North Center for Student Advocacy and Community
Everyone is invited to join us for Juneteenth trivia, refreshments, light bites, and to socialize with fellow members of the community before the holiday. Trivia, games, and giveaways hosted by The Black Leadership Network.
In addition to our upcoming Juneteenth Celebration on campus, we encourage you to explore the many events offered by the greater Houston community. There's a wealth of activities to experience and/or learn from! Click HERE to see the Greater Houston Juneteenth calendar of events.
Event Map