Juneteenth now a permanent state holiday in Virginia
RICHMOND, Va. (FOX 5 DC) - Juneteenth is now a permanent state holiday in Virginia.
Governor Ralph Northam announced in a press conference Tuesday that he has officially signed the order he previously proposed that marks the day as a paid holiday for state employees.
With Virginia native Pharrell standing alongside him, Northam announced the proposal in June.
RELATED: Northam, Pharrell announce proposal to make Juneteenth a paid state holiday in Virginia
Virginia Ralph Northam addresses concerning coronavirus statistics
Virginia Governor Ralph Northam provided an update on the state's response to the novel coronavirus pandemic on Tuesday.
"It’s time we elevate this – not just by and for some Virginians – but one acknowledged and celebrated by all of us, because that’s how important this event is," he said. "It finally shut the door on the enslavement of African-American people. And while it did not end racism, black oppression or violence – it is an important symbol. By commemorating it, we push people to think about the significance of Juneteenth."
The order begins with giving state employees a paid holiday on June 19.
Download the FOX 5 DC News App for Local Breaking News and Weather
June 19 commemorates the day when residents in Galveston, Texas became the last Americans to learn that the slaves had been freed.