A Field Guide to Juneteenth

Stories of Juneteenth

Field Guide Vol. 268

In honor of Juneteenth, we're sharing reflections and history that show how this holiday came to be and continues to evolve—both in the US and beyond. From personal perspectives to historical milestones, we’re taking a closer look at the many ways people connect with Juneteenth and how it resonates for people all around the world.

---

Field Guide examines how different cultures play with the same concepts—from voting and water access to movie-making and whiskey. Field Guide is for paid subscribers—thank you for your support!

We rely on our paid subscribers to do this work. Not yet a member? Upgrade today and help us continue to publish great journalism from around the world.

---

Did you know?

The White House, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

At the age of 89, Dr. Opal Lee conducted a symbolic walk from Fort Worth, TX to Washington, D.C., to petition to make Juneteenth a federal holiday. They left Fort Worth in September 2016 and arrived in Washington in January 2017. Many consider Dr. Opal Lee to be the “Grandmother of Juneteenth.” While Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021, it has been a Texas state holiday since a 1979 legislation declaring it as such.