KENTUCKY — Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer (D) and University of Kentucky President Eli Capilouto both declared Juneteenth a holiday beginning in 2021.

Fischer said beginning June 19, 2021, Louisville Metro Government will recognize Juneteenth as a holiday for all employees.

“It’s important for us to recognize that not every American attained freedom on July 4, 1776. For enslaved African Americans, freedom came almost a century later,” said the Mayor, adding that Juneteenth – the annual Freedom Day celebration to commemorate the belated announcement in 1865 to enslaved African-Americans in Galveston, Texas, that the Civil War was over – is “an important moment in our nation’s history, and every American should commemorate this day.”

Fischer noted slavery didn't end in Kentucky until the ratification of the 13th Amendment on December 18, 1865. 

UK's Capilouto says the day will be recognized as a university holiday next year as well. 

“June 19th is a celebration of freedom. And it is a reminder that attempts to bring equality to all people have so often been met with opposition,” Capilouto told members of the UK Board of Trustees. “It is our responsibility to make sure we do all that we can to conquer each barrier. I hope it will become a moment to pause, to reflect, and a time that compels our community to act.”

Capilouto made the announcement Friday following the release of a multi-step action plan to increase the commitment to — and investments in — access and opportunity for Black students and communities of color on the UK campus.