On Wednesday, October 14, 2020, Governor Andrew Cuomo signed legislation (S.8598/A.10628) officially making Juneteenth, a day commemorating the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States, a New York state holiday. Governor Cuomo said. "This new public holiday will serve as a day to recognize the achievements of the Black community, while also providing an important opportunity for self-reflection on the systemic injustices that our society still faces today."