Introduction: Understanding Juneteenth and Walgreens’ Role
Juneteenth, often referred to as America’s second Independence Day, is more than just a date on the calendar—it is a symbol of Black freedom, resilience, and remembrance. In recent years, major companies like Walgreens have taken steps to acknowledge and honor this important day. But many people still ask, why is it called Juneteenth? This article explores that question while also shedding light on how Walgreens has played a part in recognizing Juneteenth as a time for awareness, education, and celebration.
Why Is It Called Juneteenth? A Historical Background
To answer the question, why is it called Juneteenth, we must travel back to June 19, 1865. Although President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, declaring all enslaved people in Confederate states free, enforcement of the law relied on the advance of Union troops. Texas, being one of the most remote Confederate states, remained largely unaffected by the proclamation.
On June 19, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and issued General Order No. 3, which officially informed the enslaved people of their freedom. This momentous day became known as Juneteenth, blending the words “June” and “nineteenth.” Hence, why it is called Juneteenth lies in the combination of the date and the event it commemorates—the true delivery of freedom.
How Walgreens Observes Juneteenth
Like many organizations working toward inclusivity and social responsibility, Walgreens has taken steps to honor Juneteenth in various ways. Employees are educated about the history of the holiday through internal communications, and stores may feature culturally relevant displays to raise awareness.
Here are some key ways Walgreens has embraced Juneteenth:
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Diversity and Inclusion Programs: Walgreens supports internal events that educate employees about why it is called Juneteenth and what it represents.
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Paid Holiday Status: In some corporate branches, employees are given time off or are encouraged to use the day for volunteering or attending educational events.
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Community Partnerships: Walgreens partners with local organizations to support Black-owned businesses and Juneteenth celebrations.
Through these initiatives, Walgreens shows how corporate America can play a role in recognizing cultural milestones.
Why the Recognition Matters
Understanding why it is called Juneteenth is not just a lesson in history—it is a matter of cultural integrity and social justice. As companies like Walgreens publicly recognize the importance of Juneteenth, they also validate the lived experiences of Black Americans. This acknowledgment serves multiple purposes:
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Educational: Spreading awareness about the delayed freedom of enslaved people in Texas.
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Symbolic: Highlighting the struggles that continue even after legislative victories.
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Cultural: Celebrating African American traditions, art, food, and music.
By encouraging employees and customers to learn more about the holiday, Walgreens helps bridge the gap between historical neglect and modern recognition.
Juneteenth and the Federal Holiday Status
Although Juneteenth has been celebrated in African American communities for over 150 years, it wasn’t until June 17, 2021, that President Joe Biden signed legislation making it a federal holiday. This act was a response to ongoing national conversations about racial justice and equity.
So, why is it called Juneteenth, and why did it take so long to be federally recognized? The name reflects a specific event, but the delay in recognition highlights the broader societal delays in acknowledging systemic injustice.
Since the official recognition, companies like Walgreens have begun integrating Juneteenth into their corporate calendars and cultural awareness programs. This has helped bring the holiday into mainstream consciousness.
The Broader Meaning of Juneteenth Today
Today, Juneteenth serves multiple roles in American society. It is a day of remembrance, education, and celebration. Understanding why it is called Juneteenth and how Walgreens supports it offers insight into the evolving landscape of corporate social responsibility.
Here’s how modern Juneteenth celebrations often look:
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Events and seminars that teach people about slavery and emancipation. |
| Community Events | Parades, festivals, and musical performances celebrating Black culture. |
| Reflection | A time for people to reflect on racial inequality and how to address it. |
| Support Initiatives | Businesses like Walgreens supporting Black-led projects and vendors. |
Understanding and honoring why it is called Juneteenth contributes to a more inclusive society.
Why Companies Like Walgreens Participate
Incorporating cultural holidays like Juneteenth is not just about checking a box—it’s about meaningful engagement. Walgreens recognizes that understanding why it is called Juneteenth can deepen workplace empathy and strengthen community bonds.
Walgreens benefits from this engagement in multiple ways:
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Brand Trust: Customers prefer companies that align with their values.
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Employee Satisfaction: Workers feel more valued when their heritage is acknowledged.
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Community Impact: Participation in Juneteenth events reflects commitment to local communities.
Through active involvement, Walgreens helps make Juneteenth more visible to the general public, answering that vital question—why is it called Juneteenth—for those unfamiliar with it.
A Timeline Snapshot
To put Juneteenth and Walgreens’ modern recognition into historical context, here’s a brief timeline:
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1863 | Emancipation Proclamation signed by Abraham Lincoln |
| 1865 | Juneteenth declared in Galveston, Texas |
| 1980 | Texas becomes the first state to make Juneteenth a state holiday |
| 2021 | Juneteenth becomes a U.S. federal holiday |
| 2022+ | Companies like Walgreens begin officially observing Juneteenth |
This timeline demonstrates the long path from emancipation to national awareness—and why questions like why is it called Juneteenth remain relevant today.
How Walgreens Customers Can Get Involved
As a customer of Walgreens, you can also participate in honoring Juneteenth:
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Visit Walgreens community boards to learn about local events.
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Support Black-owned brands featured in stores during June.
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Join webinars or community drives promoted by Walgreens around Juneteenth.
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Educate yourself on why it is called Juneteenth and share with others.
Conclusion
Juneteenth is a powerful reminder of delayed justice and the enduring strength of the human spirit. The name itself—why is it called Juneteenth—reflects a historic moment when freedom finally reached the last of the enslaved. Through cultural awareness, educational efforts, and inclusive initiatives, Walgreens plays a role in promoting this vital chapter in American history.
In learning about Juneteenth and why it is called Juneteenth, we not only honor the past but also build a more equitable future. And in doing so, Walgreens stands as an example of how businesses can uplift communities through acknowledgment, action, and allyship.