Juneteenth was celebrated throughout Delaware County with special notice this year of its new status as an official federal holiday marking the end of slavery in the United States, writes Kathleen E. Carey for the Daily Times.

Juneteenth recognized June 19, 1865, as the end of slavery in the United States when enslaved Black people in Galveston, Texas were freed.

“As we celebrate #Juneteenth today, commemorating the end of slavery in the United States, let us also reflect on the work left to do in our pursuit of a more perfect union — one with equality and justice for ALL,” U.S. Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon, D-5 of Swarthmore, tweeted.

On Wednesday, Delaware County Council passed a resolution recognizing the day.

In Chester, city officials held the 10th Annual Chester Juneteenth Festival in Memorial Park.

The Delaware County Veterans Memorial in Newtown Square hosted its Second Annual Celebration of Juneteenth 1865.

In Yeadon, the Nile Swim Club hosted a family event with African drummers, dancers and a vendor marketplace for the holiday.

At Upper Darby High School, Forum Philly hosted a Juneteenth Observance & Community Fair.

In Collingdale, the Juneteenth flag was raised for the first time in the borough’s history.

Read more at the Daily Times about Juneteenth celebrations.