Thu Jun 19 15:10:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and news article rewrite of the provided text:

**Summary:**

Juneteenth, the federal holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States, will be observed this Thursday, June 19th. As a result, many government offices at the local, state, and federal levels will be closed. Mail delivery will also be affected, though Priority Mail Express will remain available. Individuals are encouraged to check with their local government for specific closures in their area.

**News Article:**

**Government Offices to Close Thursday for Juneteenth Holiday**

Washington D.C. – Government offices across the United States will be closed this Thursday, June 19th, in observance of Juneteenth, the federal holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in Texas.

Designated a federal holiday in 2021, Juneteenth marks the day in 1865 when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas, announcing the freedom of more than 250,000 enslaved people, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation.

The U.S. Office of Personnel Management has designated Thursday as a federal holiday, leading to the closure of non-essential government offices nationwide. While many state and local institutions are expected to follow suit, individuals are advised to confirm closures with their local government offices.

The U.S. Postal Service has confirmed that all post offices will be closed for retail transactions, and there will be no regular mail delivery. However, Priority Mail Express service will continue to operate.

Juneteenth is also known as America’s Second Independence Day, and it represents a time of reflection, celebration, and continued progress toward equality and justice for all.

*This article includes information from USA TODAY’s Gabe Hauari.*

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