(Norwalk, Conn.) Today, June 17, 2022, Mayor Rilling announced that the City of Norwalk recognizes Juneteenth as a holiday and will be closed on Monday, June 20, 2022, in its honor. 

Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. While the Emancipation Proclamation officially went into effect on January 1, 1863, the news took time to make its way around the nation. It wasn’t until June 19, 1865, that enslaved people in Galveston, Texas were made aware of the Emancipation Proclamation by the Union army, making them among the last to be freed. 

“The City of Norwalk recognizes Juneteenth as an important day in U.S. history that should be well-known to help educate our community about the devastating impacts of slavery,” said Mayor Harry Rilling. “Honoring Juneteenth reaffirms that the American people must continue to right the wrongs of the past and work to create a more just and perfect union where every person is treated with dignity and respect.” 

Earlier this year, the State of Connecticut approved legislation that marks June 19, an official state holiday. This new law goes into effect on October 1, 2022, meaning that the first time Juneteenth Independence Day will be legally recognized as a state holiday will be on June 19, 2023. 

Additionally, the First Taxing District has partnered with the City of Norwalk and Norwalk Hospital to present the first annual Juneteenth Celebration on the Historic Norwalk Green this Saturday, June 18 from 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM. This event will include vendors, live music, a dance workshop, a crafts fair, tasty food trucks and fun for the entire family. 

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