Newtown Township To Consider Making Juneteenth A Township Holiday

NEWTOWN, PA — The Newtown Township Board of Supervisors will consider making Juneteenth an official township holiday at its next board meeting.

At the board's May 26 meeting, Supervisor David Oxley, who is the only Black supervisor and the first person of color to serve on the board, said that it's important for the township to recognize African-American history.

"It's quite evident based on what has happened that there's a lot of conversations that need to happen, and this is a great way to start," Oxley said. "I truly appreciate any support I can get on this."

The board voted 5-0 to prepare a resolution declaring Juneteenth a holiday in the township. It will be voted on at the board's next meeting on Wednesday, June 9.

Also known as Freedom Day and Emancipation Day, Juneteenth is a holiday celebrating the emancipation of slaves in the United States. It is celebrated annually on June 19, commemorating the anniversary of the 1865 announcement by Union Army general Gordon Granger proclaiming freedom from slavery in Texas.

Be the first to know what's happening in your town and area. Sign up to get Patch emails and don't miss a minute of local and state news: https://patch.com/subscribe