Target makes Juneteenth a company holiday

In an effort to build on its commitment to racial justice and equity, Target says it is now recognizing Juneteenth as a company holiday.

According to Target, hourly team members scheduled to work on June 19 will be paid holiday premium pay.

The company will also close its headquarters in observance of Juneteenth, which commemorates the end of slavery in the United States.

"We recognize that the racial trauma the country is experiencing now is not new, but throughout recent weeks there has been a sense that this time is, and has to be, different," Chairman and CEO of Target, Brian Cornell, said. "Juneteenth takes on additional significance in this moment. Moving now to recognize it on an annual basis—as a day to celebrate, further educate ourselves or connect with our communities—is one more important action Target can take as a company to help the country live up to the ideal of moving forward in a new way."