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LISTEN: Can Juneteenth Become An Official State Holiday In Connecticut?

Grace Murray Stephenson
/
Austin History Center

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:

John Henry Smith is Connecticut Public’s host of All Things Considered, its flagship afternoon news program. He's proud to be a part of the team that won a regional Emmy Award for The Vote: A Connecticut Conversation. In his 21st year as a professional broadcaster, he’s covered both news and sports.

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