06/19/2026
Today is Juneteenth! So, what is the history behind this holiday?
Well, 161 years ago, in Galveston, Texas, the last enslaved African Americans learned they were free, marking the true end of slavery in the United States and a pivotal moment in our nation’s history.
Our 2026 Juneteenth crown features Kente cloth, a textile widely recognized as a symbol of African identity and cultural pride. During the Civil Rights Movement, African American leaders adopted Kente cloth to visually express the connection to their African heritage. Today, you’ll see it woven into Charlotte’s Juneteenth traditions, as our community celebrates this same heritage across the city.
Our awesome Creative Services team in the Charlotte Communications & Marketing department created this beautiful crown!
As we commemorate this day, we reflect on the progress made, recognize the work that remains and honor the generations who have helped build a stronger, more vibrant community.
City of Charlotte offices are closed today in observance of the holiday. However, Solid Waste Services is operating on a normal schedule with an orange recycling week.
