NEW YORK (1010 WINS) -- It's official: Juneteenth is an official public holiday in New York State.
Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed the legislation on Wednesday.
"I am incredibly proud to sign into law this legislation declaring Juneteenth an official holiday in New York State, a day which commemorates the end to slavery in the United States," Cuomo said in a statement about the holiday, which is observed on June 19.
He added, "This new public holiday will serve as a day to recognize the achievements of the Black community, while also providing an important opportunity for self-reflection on the systemic injustices that our society still faces today."
Cuomo earlier this year issued an Executive Order recognizing Juneteenth as a holiday for New York State employees.
State Senator Kevin Parker of Brooklyn, said, "Finally, we are beginning to acknowledge the historic oppression and injustices that African-Americans have endured. This holiday is a first step in reconciliation and healing that our great state needs in order to ensure equity for all people."
Assembly member Alicia Hyndman of Queens said, "Juneteenth serves as a piece of history towards Black liberation in this country. I am glad to serve along with my colleagues in government and Governor Cuomo, as a part of ensuring these important parts of Black American history will continued to be told in our great state of New York."
Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when the news of liberation came to Texas more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation went into effect on January 1, 1863.