Can Trump Remove Juneteenth as a Federal Holiday?
Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, is a significant holiday that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. It is celebrated on June 19th and has been recognized as a federal holiday since 2021. However, there has been a debate regarding whether former President Donald Trump had the authority to remove Juneteenth as a federal holiday. This article aims to explore this topic and provide insights into the legal and historical aspects surrounding this matter.
Legal Authority of the President
The authority of the President to declare federal holidays is derived from the United States Code, specifically Title 5, Chapter 6, Section 6103. This section grants the President the power to establish federal holidays and to change the date of existing holidays. However, it does not explicitly mention the President’s ability to remove a federal holiday.
Historical Context
Juneteenth was first celebrated in Galveston, Texas, in 1865, when Union General Gordon Granger arrived and announced the end of slavery in the state. The holiday gained popularity over the years, and in 2020, President Trump signed a proclamation recognizing Juneteenth as a federal holiday. This move was seen as a significant step towards acknowledging the historical significance of the holiday and promoting racial equality.
Debate on Removing Juneteenth
Despite the recognition of Juneteenth as a federal holiday, some individuals have questioned whether Trump had the authority to remove it. Critics argue that the President’s power to establish federal holidays is not absolute and that removing a holiday could be seen as a reversal of the progress made in promoting racial equality.
Legal Implications
Removing a federal holiday is a complex legal issue. While the President has the authority to establish and change the date of federal holidays, there is no clear legal precedent for removing a holiday altogether. Legal experts have differing opinions on whether the President has the power to revoke a federal holiday, with some suggesting that it would require an act of Congress to do so.
Public Opinion
Public opinion on the removal of Juneteenth as a federal holiday is divided. Some individuals believe that the holiday is a vital part of American history and should not be removed, while others argue that the President has the authority to make changes to federal holidays as needed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while President Trump had the legal authority to establish and change the date of federal holidays, the question of whether he could remove Juneteenth as a federal holiday remains a topic of debate. Legal experts have differing opinions on this matter, and public opinion is divided. Regardless of the legal implications, Juneteenth remains a significant holiday that celebrates the end of slavery and promotes racial equality in the United States.
