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UC closed Friday in honor of Juneteenth

University of Cincinnati responds to new federal holiday with day off Friday, June 18

headshot of John Bach By John Bach 513-556-2019
2 minute read June 17, 2021

Message to UC community from UC President Neville G. Pinto

In honor of the federal government’s decision to establish Juneteenth as a day that all Americans celebrate, the University of Cincinnati will observe Friday, June 18, as a new university holiday.

This Saturday marks the 156th anniversary of Juneteenth, a date long celebrated to commemorate the delayed emancipation of slaves in the United States, and I applaud President Joe Biden’s decision today to sign a bill establishing Juneteenth as a federal holiday. 

Given the short notice, classes on Friday will be held at the discretion of each faculty member. Staff who are unable to take the day off should connect with their supervisor to arrange to take another day off.

It is past time that we as a society acknowledge the imperfect history from our past while also addressing the systemic inequalities of our present. This day is not only an opportunity for us to pause to reflect and commit ourselves to inclusiveness, equity and justice, it is a time for our university community to seek a greater understanding of the lived experiences of Black people in America. 

To that end, the university announced earlier this week that we are partnering with the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center to offer free tickets for all UC faculty, staff and students to visit the museum on Saturday, June 19 or Sunday, June 20. To reserve your tickets, call (513) 333-7500, press 5 for Guest Services, and use the promotion code: UCFreedom. The Freedom Center will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. You will need to show your UC ID for admission.

Please join me in marking this important moment by spending time learning, reflecting and making a renewed commitment to racial justice. 

Neville G. Pinto
President 

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