Monday is Juneteenth holiday, with some government offices closed

Monday, June 20, is a holiday. Some people are off and others will work. All federal, state and Branch County offices are closed. The city and village offices are open.

In June 2021, President Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act. Juneteenth joined 11 other holidays recognized by the federal government. All federal government offices are closed and its employees receive a day off.

Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved black Americans. It is also often observed to celebrate African-American culture.

Originating in Galveston, Texas, it has been celebrated annually on June 19 in various parts of the United States. It was the date in 1865 when the last enslaved people were notified of the Emancipation Act.

Michigan State employees also have the day off. Last year, state workers won a 5-percent raise beginning in 2022. Also included in the newly-negotiated contract is paid time off to celebrate Juneteenth.

With state court employees off Monday, the Michigan Supreme Court declared Monday a court holiday earlier this month. That means all state and local courts are closed. Judges and those who work for them are off, even though each county pays local employees.

Branch County Commissioners determined the courts must be closed Monday. With most of the offices in the courthouse affiliated with the courts, commissioners decided the courthouse should be closed in observance of the holiday.

Commissioners made Juneteenth a paid holiday for all employees. Administrator Bud Norman said the unions would be contacted regarding this change. None are expected to object to another paid holiday.

Juneteenth was added as an official holiday for Branch County on its 2023 calendar.

In St. Joseph County, courts will be closed. Court employees must use a vacation day there. All other county offices are open. 

This article originally appeared on The Daily Reporter: Some government offices closed for Juneteenth holiday