Juneteenth, also known as “Emancipation Day” or the “Day of Freedom,” is both the somber and celebratory day to commemorate the Thirteenth Amendment abolishing slavery.

Ever since its inception in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1866 — one year after enslaved African Americans in the state learned of their freedom due to the Emancipation Proclamation and Thirteenth Amendment — Juneteenth celebrations tend to focus on education and reflection on the path to freedom and the steps still needed to achieve equity.

Following this long tradition, Utah State University is commemorating Juneteenth weeklong with virtual and in-person events from June 17–19, featuring educational panels and presentations on early and current activism and its importance, and culminating in an interfaith devotional.