Do you celebrate Juneteenth? It is now a federal holiday, commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. In South Bend it is also now a city holiday, and city employees will get the day off.

“I would encourage all of our citizens to partake in all the activities that will be held within our city,” said Common Council member Karen White at Monday’s committee meeting, discussing a resolution by Mayor James Mueller.

“It’s a time to recognize some past struggles, but it’s always a time to recognize the progress that has been made,” she said.

The holiday will likely cost the city upwards of $20,000 for paying employee overtime and holiday pay.

The holiday is known by law as Juneteenth National Independence Day, and was first recognized last year, on June 17, after being signed into law by Pres. Biden. Mueller said he believes it’s important that his city follow the president’s lead.

Indianapolis also celebrates Juneteenth with a paid day off for city employees.

While Indiana recognizes and celebrates Juneteenth, it is not on the list of state holidays for which people get a paid day off.

Juneteenth is June 19.