National and Regional Public Holidays Observed in New Jersey, USA

Juneteenth: A Significant Federal and State Holiday

Juneteenth, commemorated annually on June 19th, holds immense importance in the United States as a federal holiday marking the end of slavery. Its significance extends to the state of New Jersey, which passed a law recognizing Juneteenth as a state holiday even before the federal legislation.

The unanimous vote by the Senate in 2021 to establish Juneteenth as a federal holiday signified a monumental step in acknowledging the historical significance of this event. In New Jersey, the passage of a state law prior to the federal action demonstrated the state's commitment to recognizing and honoring the contributions of African American communities.