Juneteenth Celebrations Across The U.S. Underway

In 1980, Texas took the reins and became the first state to make Juneteenth a state holiday.

Voices sing out in harmony and solidarity at Avenue L Baptist Church, Texas oldest Black church founded by five former slaves.

“Since this is the birthplace of Juneteenth, and this is the oldest church where African-Americans assembled, we thought it important that we merge that history together,” said Pastor Donnell Johns.

This is part of the church's Juneteenth celebration.  Johnson says Juneteenth is about history and healing.