LANSING, Mich. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed a proclamation Wednesday declaring June 19, 2020 as Juneteenth Celebration Day" for the state. Juneteenth is a holiday commemorating the day the last African American slaves were notified of their freedom in 1865. Im proud to declare June 19, 2020 as Juneteenth Celebration Day, and will continue to work tirelessly to create a state that is equal for all.The governor signed a similar proclamation last year to recognize Juneteenth Celebration Day. According to the proclamation, Michigan has recognized Juneteenth as a holiday for the last 16 years. Juneteenth -- also known as Jubilee Day or Freedom Day -- is a traditional holiday for many Americans, but is receiving more attention this year as the nation decries racism following the recent killings of multiple Black Americans.