The Town of Yorktown is joining communities across the nation in recognizing Juneteenth, the federal holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States.
The Town Board issued a proclamation recognizing June 19 as Juneteenth Day, honoring the date in 1865 when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, and enforced President Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation, freeing enslaved people more than two years after the order took effect on Jan. 1, 1863.
In the proclamation, the town noted that Juneteenth is recognized as the nation's oldest celebration commemorating the end of slavery. The observance has also been known as "Freedom Day," "Emancipation Day" and "Emancipation Celebration."
Town officials said Juneteenth celebrations have historically honored African American freedom while promoting self-development, education and respect for all cultures.
The proclamation also reaffirmed the town's opposition to "all forms of oppression, racism and bigotry."
In recognition of the holiday, Yorktown town buildings will be closed Friday.
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