Even though US President Donald Trump and its administration has attacked diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts, Juneteenth is observed as a federal holiday in the United States, according to the Office of Personnel Management. Many Americans will enjoy the day off from work, despite the private sector also edging away from DEI. This year, Juneteenth falls on Thursday, June 19.
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What remains open and what’s closed on Juneteenth?
Retailers
According to CNN, most major retailers and grocery stores will remain open on Juneteenth. Walmart and Target will be open during normal hours. A wide range of grocers will also be open, including wholesale retailer Costco, Kroger and the roughly two dozen chains under Kroger’s banner, the report said.
Walgreens stores will remain open during their regular hours on Juneteenth; however, most of their pharmacies will be closed, with the exception of 24-hour and select locations. CVS pharmacies will also be open, though some may operate on reduced hours.
Post Office
All post offices will be closed for retail transactions and there will be no regular residential or business mail deliveries on Thursday, June 19, according to the US Postal Service’s website. However, all UPS and FedEx services will be open and available.
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Financial Services and Stock Market
Markets will be closed, and Nasdaq and the New York Stock Exchange will not be trading on Thursday. Juneteenth is a banking holiday observed by the Federal Reserve. Major banks like Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Bank of America and TD Bank will also be closed. Online banking services and ATMs will be available.
Federal and government offices
Federal offices will be closed in observance of Juneteenth, though many schools will already be on summer break.
Still, not all federal or state government employees receive a paid day off. According to a Pew Research analysis, as of 2023, at least 28 states officially recognized Juneteenth as a public holiday, granting state workers paid time off. Other states may instead observe the day through commemorations or ceremonies.
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In West Virginia, for instance, Governor Patrick Morrisey’s administration announced that state employees would not have the day off, reversing the recent practice. Instead, the governor encouraged all residents to pause and reflect on the significance of the end of slavery in the United States.
Will packages be delivered on Juneteenth?
UPS pickup and delivery services will be available on Juneteenth, according to the company’s website. UPS Store locations will also be open. Check with your local store for specific hours of operation.
