COVINGTON, Ky. — In 2021, Juneteenth became an official federal holiday. The city of Covington declared it a city-wide observance in Feb. 2022. 

“I feel like it should have been done a while ago, but I’m glad that it’s recognized now,” Acasia Minor said.

Minor and her family operate Shadow Black Conjure, one vendor at Welcome House’s Juneteenth Event in Randolph Park in Covington. Minor said Juneteenth is a big day in history. June 19, 1865 is the day slaves in Texas received their freedom with the Emancipation Proclamation.

“It’s like the true day of our freedom. That’s why Juneteenth is important to me because it helps shed light on African Americans,” she said.

Organizers with Welcome House ensured Black-owned businesses, resources, and more were available to help celebrate what the day means and why it’s so important to American history.

“And not just hiding certain parts of that history but actually being open and honest about what American history is and all the roles everyone has played in making America what it is today,” Tasha Ross, Welcome House’s housing service coordinator, said.

Minor said attending and celebrating Juneteenth keeps this day in history alive. It’s important to remember, reflect, and keep it in history. It’s also important to celebrate Black people here and now as well.

“Because a lot of these celebrations are hosted or thrown by Black people, Black businesses. I feel it is important to come and support businesses and parties and celebrations for Juneteenth because it just helps recognize Juneteenth as a national holiday,” Minor said.

Covington’s city hall will close Monday June 20 in observance of Juneteenth.