Governor Hochul Issues Proclamation for Juneteenth Observance

Black Liberation Flag to be Flown Over New York State Capitol

State Landmarks to be Illuminated Red, Black, and Green

Read Proclamation Here

Governor Kathy Hochul today issued a proclamation in observance of Juneteenth. The Governor also announced that the red, black, and green Black Liberation Flag will be raised over the New York State Capitol on Sunday June 19 and Monday June 20, and that State landmarks will be illuminated red, black, and green on Sunday June 19.

"Arriving just over a month after the horrific, racist shootings in Buffalo, this year's Juneteenth observance is an opportunity to reflect and heal as we commemorate the emancipation of enslaved Africans and their descendants in this country," Governor Hochul said. "In recognition of the Black community's persistent and intergenerational resistance to institutional oppression, I have directed the Black Liberation Flag to be flown over the state Capitol this year to signify New Yorkers' solidarity in the struggle against the senseless violence and discrimination inflicted upon Black communities, families, and individuals."

"Every year, on June 19th, we celebrate the freedom of African Americans who were enslaved until their liberation in 1865," Lieutenant Governor Delgado said. "The painful legacies of slavery and segregation live on within our hearts, but the continued fight for justice and equal representation give us hope in an equitable future where our children can live in peace and love without bearing the weight of the injustices and scars of the past. We honor our history on Juneteenth as we work together to create a more inclusive future."

On June 19, 1865, Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas at the conclusion of the Civil War to free the remaining enslaved African Americans, nearly two and a half years after Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation. June 19 is often considered the official end of slavery in the United States and the nation's second Independence Day. This year, June 19 falls on a Sunday, and Juneteenth will be observed as both a New York State and federal holiday on Monday, June 20.

New York State Office of General Services Commissioner Jeanette Moy said, "On Juneteenth, we celebrate and honor the perseverance and contributions of Black Americans while renewing our commitment to equality and justice for all. As we raise the Black Liberation Flag over the Capitol and other State office buildings this year, we join Governor Hochul in seeking the changes necessary to end the systemic racism and threats of violence that our society faces daily."

State Senator Kevin Parker said, "I am very proud to have sponsored the Juneteenth Holiday law in the Senate. It's a remembrance of our tragic history of enslavement but also the promise of freedom that we continue to strive towards. Let's all use this day to recommit ourselves to the struggle for freedom and equality in our great state and nation!"

Assemblymember Michaelle C. Solages said, "As we mark the Juneteenth holiday, we commemorate the abolishment of slavery and acknowledge the hard-fought journey towards freedom for African Americans. While the work continues, it is important to acknowledge how far we have come as we celebrate freedom and continue to strive for racial justice. I want to thank Governor Hochul for recognizing and celebrating the Juneteenth holiday in New York State."

Assemblymember Alicia Hyndman said, "Juneteenth symbolizes the generational fight for liberation. From the first enslaved Black people to touch the shores of the Atlantic in the 16th century, to the freedoms granted to the last of the enslaved Black people in Galveston, Texas in 1865, and as folks march for Black Lives today. From legislation to liberation, it is as an honor to not only be the catalyst in empowering Juneteenth as a state holiday, but to jubilee in community with the entirety of your communities on Freedom Day: June 19. Let freedom ring!"

The Black Liberation Flag will be flown on Sunday, June 19, and on the observed holiday, Monday, June 20, over the New York State Capitol and the following State buildings: