This year is the 155th annual Juneteenth Celebration, symbolically marking the freedom of Black people from slavery in this nation. But despite the long history of the day, many white Americans are hearing about it for the first time in the wake of George Floyd’s killing. Connecticut has recognized Juneteenth since 2003, but it is not yet an official state holiday.
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Connecticut Public Radio’s All Things Considered host John Henry Smith spoke with House Majority Leader Matthew Ritter about the future of Juneteenth commemorations here.
Hear the interview below: