Juneteenth is considered the date when the last slaves in America were freed.  Although the rumors of freedom were widespread prior to this, actual emancipation did not come until General Gordon Granger rode into Galveston, Texas and issued General Order No. 3 on June 19, almost two and a half years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. 

Juneteenth has come to symbolize the end of slavery, and for many African-Americans, it has come to mean what Fourth of July means for all Americans - freedom.  It serves as a historical milestone reminding Americans of the triumph of the human spirit over the cruelty of slavery.  It honors those African-American ancestors who survived the institution of bondage as well as demonstrating pride in the marvelous legacy of resilience and perseverance they left us.