Posted 3/24/23

The Tennessee Senate overwhelmingly approved a measure that would change Juneteenth from a “day of special observance” to a legal, paid holiday.

June 19th, or Juneteenth, is the day observed by Black and African-Americans as fully liberating enslaved African Americans.

The day was recognized as a federal holiday in 2021, and During the Thursday floor session, the bill gained the constitutional majority for the chamber, passing 24-4.

The House companion bill is set for further discussion in the Public Service Subcommittee Tuesday, March 28th.