Trump Slams ‘Non-Working Holidays’ on Juneteenth: What It Means for Americans | CNN Politics

On Juneteenth, a federal holiday marking the end of slavery in the U.S., former President Donald Trump expressed his concerns on social media about the number of holidays in the country. He suggested that these "non-working holidays" are costly, arguing they lead to billions in losses and disrupt business operations. He stated, “The workers don’t want it either! Soon we’ll end up having a holiday for every one working day of the year.”

Juneteenth, observed on June 19, commemorates the day in 1865 when Union Army General Gordon Granger announced freedom to enslaved people in Texas, over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. This holiday has gained more significance as discussions around racial justice have intensified in recent years.

During a recent White House press briefing, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt mentioned Trump wasn’t expected to mark this holiday. In contrast, President Joe Biden spoke at a historic Black church in Galveston to honor Juneteenth. He remarked that federal holidays reflect national values, emphasizing the importance of what we celebrate as Americans.

Interestingly, Trump once claimed credit for making Juneteenth widely recognized, stating that "nobody had ever heard of it" before his presidency. Despite his earlier pledge to establish it as a federal holiday during his 2020 campaign, it was officially recognized as such in 2021 under Biden’s administration.

In a broader context, many Americans view holidays as essential to cultural identity and community engagement. Recent surveys indicate a strong desire for more inclusive observances that reflect diverse histories and contributions. As holidays often prompt various reactions on social media, many users voiced their support for Juneteenth, appreciating it as a moment for reflection and community unity.

As the conversation around diversity and inclusion continues to evolve, the relevance of holidays like Juneteenth could foster meaningful dialogue about America’s past and present. For additional insights about federal holidays and their impact, you can explore the U.S. Office of Personnel Management for further information.

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