Dear USDA employees,

Tomorrow, June 19, 2024, is Juneteenth, a day to honor African Americans, past and present, and to acknowledge their priceless contributions to our nation.

On June 17, 2021, President Joe Biden signed legislation officially recognizing Juneteenth as a Federal holiday. Juneteenth holds a profound historical significance. Its roots trace back to 1865 when, on June 19, U.S. Major General Gordon Granger issued General Order No. 3, declaring the freedom of all enslaved people in Texas. This day, known as Juneteenth, is the oldest known celebration marking the end of slavery in the United States.

African Americans have significantly contributed to the American civil rights movement. Their activism has encompassed a range of civil rights campaigns, such as those opposed to racial profiling, discrimination, and hate crimes. African Americans consistently advocate for the rights of all minority groups through public outreach and political participation. In the Congressional Black Caucus of this Congress, we are fortunate to have a historic 60 members of the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate.  

I add my own voice to theirs in active advocacy to improve diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, and I ask that you do the same as part of our commitment to serving the public. Juneteenth is not only a celebration, but also a call to action. Let's continue to fight for equality and justice, address systemic racism, and work to create a more inclusive society.

Thank you for your continued dedication and commitment. We look forward to celebrating with you.
 

Sincerely,

Secretary Tom Vilsack
Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small
 

Additional Background and Resources

Juneteenth was established by presidential proclamation to celebrate the rich heritage and numerous contributions of Jubilee. In response to Opal Lee, the racial justice movement, and the Congressional Black Caucus, the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act was unanimously passed by the Senate on June 15, 2021, making Juneteenth an official holiday. On June 16, the House of Representatives voted it through 415–14. President Biden became the first United States president to declare Juneteenth. African Americans have advanced the nation's achievements in engineering, agriculture, science, and technology, as well as in art, culture, and social justice. We mark Juneteenth by celebrating African Americans' rich culture and heritage and honoring their contributions to this country.

For additional USDA observances and resources, please visit the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights website. Also, visit AgLearn for even more announcements and resources.