On Tuesday, county commissioners established Juneteenth as a paid holiday for Hennepin County employees.
“Juneteeth commemorates the end of slavery and the triumphs, culture and achievements of African Americans locally and across the United States. This is an opportunity to think about the centuries of work that African Americans have done to advance equity in this county and build this country,” said Commissioner Angela Conley, District 4.
Juneteenth falls on Saturday, June 19, in 2021. Therefore, Hennepin County will observe the previous workday, Friday, June 18, as a paid holiday for employees and close county offices.
“As an employer, Hennepin County recognizes a wide range of holidays, so I believe it is time for us to commemorate the end of slavery in this country as a holiday. I owe all my rights to the community leaders and activists, particularly Black women and Black youth, who thought to fight for rights that didn’t impact them. I’ve been able to gain and enjoy the rights I have today due to those efforts,” said Commissioner Irene Fernando, District 2.
In August 2020, the county board recognized Juneteenth as a county holiday. This action created a floating leave day with pay for staff (in place of the designated Christmas Eve paid holiday).
Tuesday’s action will make Juneteenth a paid holiday, while keeping the floating holiday as an option for staff who wish to recognize other religious, cultural, or personally meaningful days.