Biden to attend Juneteenth celebration in Galveston
Biden will attend the event hosted by the Reedy Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church — one of the places the order announcing the end of slavery in Texas was read on June 19, 1865.
That historic day is now commemorated each year on June 19. Biden signed legislation into law making Juneteenth a federal holiday in 2021.
The church, which describes itself as 'the birthplace of Juneteenth,' hosts an annual celebration including a 'family fun day,' a historic reenactment of the 'emancipation march,' and an 'emancipation service,' according to the website.
Biden marked Juneteenth last year about a week early, hosting a celebration concert at the White House that included singers Gladys Knight and Patti LaBelle.
'The day reminds us that we have a hell of a lot more work to do,' Biden told the nearly 1,700 attendees. 'Let's keep marching. Let's keep the faith.'
President Trump does not have any public events listed for Thursday. A White House official told The Hill that the president plans to sign a proclamation declaring June 19, 2025, as 'Juneteenth Day of Observance.'
The Hill has reached out to Biden's office about his plans.
Updated at 5:35 p.m. EDT
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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