Juneteenth observed, Black caucus calls for inclusive education

Tomorrow, communities across the country observe Juneteenth — a federal holiday celebrating freedom for all. 

On June 19, 1865, troops arrived in Galveston Texas and announced the end of slavery – more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. It was declared a federal holiday in 2021 by then President Joe Biden. 

State Rep. Earl Harris Jr. and chair of the Indiana Black Legislative Caucus commemorated the holiday while calling on the state for inclusive American education. 

During the 2025 General Assembly lawmakers crafted Senate Enrolled Act 289, banning diversity, equity and inclusion practices in government agencies, including universities. Harris also called out Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith on “shameful whitewashing” of slavery. 

Beckwith posted a statement on X, defending the Three-Fifths Compromise after a debate over the bill on April 24. 

Harris said the IBLC will continue to work to remove blockages and create equal opportunities for all Hoosiers. 

“This starts in the classroom. Teaching our children true American history – the good, the bad and the ugly – will help us ensure that the achievements of African Americans, the horrors we faced and contributions we’re making today will not be forgotten,” he said. “Some of the steps our Republican supermajority took in the most recent session of the Indiana General Assembly actively work against this goal. We should never shy away from our history – the strength of our democracy depends on us confronting our past and working to create a future where all people are extended the promise of America.”

While Juneteenth is a federal holiday, the state does not recognize it. State offices remain open, including the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles. Most private businesses operate at their own discretion. 

The Federal Reserve will close, meaning most major banks will also close. Online banking and ATMs will remain available. The New York Stock Exchange will close as well. 

The U.S. Postal Service will not deliver mail. However, UPS and FedEx will continue pickup and delivery services.

Despite a lack of state acknowledgement, communities across Indiana are hosting celebrations to honor Juneteenth including the Indiana State Fairgrounds and Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites.