NEVADA – Nevada has joined the ranks of states recognizing Juneteenth as a state holiday, following the signing of Assembly Bill 140 by Republican Gov. Joe Lombardo on Thursday. The new holiday grants many state employees the opportunity to take the day off in observance.

The bill passed with overwhelming support, securing a vote of 40 to 1 in the state Assembly and 19 to 2 in the state Senate.

Governor Lombardo expressed his pride in Nevada’s recognition of Juneteenth, stating, “Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States, and I’m proud that Nevada will now recognize this holiday on a state and federal level.” His statement was provided by spokesperson Elizabeth Ray.

Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19th, holds historical significance as the day in 1865 when enslaved Black individuals in Galveston, Texas, learned of their freedom, more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation that abolished slavery in the United States.

The federal recognition of Juneteenth as a holiday was established by President Biden in 2021, further highlighting the importance of this significant milestone in American history.

Credits: CNN

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