Wisconsin, Milwaukee Leaders Mark Juneteenth With Flags

Wisconsin and Milwaukee leaders commemorated Juneteenth by raising the Juneteenth Flag over both the State Capitol and Milwaukee City Hall, highlighting the holiday's roots in the 1865 declaration of the end of slavery in Texas by Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger. Governor Tony Evers proclaimed June 19 as Juneteenth statewide, and the flag flew over the Capitol for the sixth year in a row. Milwaukee, noted for its longstanding Juneteenth celebrations, hosted a major parade and festivities. This year, Milwaukee’s Juneteenth festival partnered with Summerfest for the first time, sharing programming and improving transit options. Public safety measures were increased in anticipation of large crowds. These events emphasize state and city commitments to justice, unity, and inclusive community celebration.