Juneteenth was officially recognized in 2021 as an annual federal holiday and celebration to commemorate June 19, 1865. On that day, two and a half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation, Black people who were enslaved in Texas were told that slavery had been abolished and that they were free. Today, Juneteenth is celebrated throughout the country to recognize the end of slavery and honor the culture and achievements of Black and African Americans.
On June 17, 2021, President Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, a historic law recognizing Juneteenth as a federal holiday each year on June 19. Last year, DPS recognized this through an early release day and committed to incorporating this holiday into our work year calendars going forward. This year, we're excited to add Juneteenth as a paid holiday for all DPS employees, making Monday, June 20, a paid day off.
Like with other holidays, if there is work that must happen on this day, employees will earn the holiday premium pay. We are partnering across departments to reflect this holiday in this year's calendar and future years. If you have questions about this work-year calendar change, reach out to your manager.
As we honor this historic day, learn about the progress we have made here in DPS thanks to initiatives like the African American Equity Task Force (AAETF) and the Black Excellence Resolution.
