Walz proclaims Saturday as Juneteenth Freedom Day

Gov. Tim Walz has proclaimed Saturday as Juneteenth Freedom Day in Minnesota.

The proclamation comes a day after President Joe Biden made Juneteenth a federal holiday.

"Juneteenth is an important opportunity for all communities across our state and Nation to celebrate freedom, honor African Americans and their history, and commit to growing from the tragedies of the past," Walz said. "It is important that as we celebrate this year’s Juneteenth, we recognize that there is still work to be done, here in Minnesota, nation-wide, and globally."

"Juneteenth is a powerful celebration of independence for the African American community and a reminder that the deep roots of slavery in this country are still evident today in the systemic racism that persists in the United States and Minnesota," Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan added. "As we unite in community this Juneteenth, we acknowledge that it is only the beginning of the deep policy work needed dismantle unjust systems of oppression and racism in our state. We must never stop working until Black Minnesotans and Minnesotans of all races are seen, heard, protected, and valued – we have much work before us."

Twin Cities African American leaders discuss importance of Juneteenth federal holiday