For decades, the National Juneteenth Observance Foundation (NJOF) worked behind the scenes to make Juneteenth a national holiday. Their legacy is one of persistence, partnership, and purpose.
Behind the Movement
When President Biden signed Juneteenth into law as a federal holiday in 2021, many saw it as long overdue. But few realized just how long—and how hard—the fight had been.
That moment was built on decades of organizing, advocacy, and coalition-building, led in large part by the National Juneteenth Observance Foundation (NJOF).
Founded in the 1990s by a physician and minister who believed that freedom should be more than a footnote, the NJOF turned Juneteenth from a local tradition into a national cause.
“It took generations of work to get one day of national recognition.”
What Is the NJOF?
The NJOF was founded in 1994 by Rev. Dr. Ronald V. Myers, Sr., a family physician, jazz musician, and Baptist minister. He was more than a man of many talents—he was a man of deep conviction.
He believed that Juneteenth was not just a historical date, but a spiritual and civic milestone that the nation needed to honor.
Under his leadership, the NJOF established itself as the national organizing body to push for Juneteenth to be recognized as a holiday at both the state and federal levels.
Their mission: to promote and cultivate knowledge and appreciation of African American history and culture, and the significance of Juneteenth as America’s Second Independence Day.
“We are not just remembering the past—we are shaping the future.” — Rev. Dr. Ronald V. Myers
State-by-State Momentum
The NJOF focused first on state legislation. With Texas becoming the first state to recognize Juneteenth in 1980, the NJOF built upon that model and began coordinating grassroots efforts across the country.
Through educational forums, partnerships with Black churches, and alliances with local legislators, they worked state by state to pass Juneteenth resolutions and recognition bills.
By 2000, Juneteenth was officially observed in more than 25 states. By 2020, it was recognized in 47 states and the District of Columbia.
Each state victory strengthened the case for federal action.
“Every state we reached was a step closer to Washington.”
The Capitol Hill Campaign
For years, the NJOF organized Juneteenth celebrations in Washington, D.C., including the National Juneteenth Prayer Breakfast, Juneteenth Flag-Raising Ceremony, and Unity Day Rally at the Capitol.
These weren’t just symbolic gestures—they were strategic advocacy.
Members of Congress like Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (TX) began introducing annual resolutions to officially recognize Juneteenth. Over time, they gained more cosponsors and national attention.
The NJOF also built relationships with educators, civil rights leaders, and youth advocates to amplify the movement beyond political circles.
They framed Juneteenth not only as a Black holiday, but as an American opportunity to face truth and celebrate freedom.
“We need a day that tells the truth—and brings us together.” — NJOF legislative briefing
Leadership Legacy
When Rev. Myers passed away in 2018, his legacy was carried forward by a national network of NJOF state directors and regional organizers.
One of them is Lee H. Jordan, who serves as the Midwest and Minnesota State Director for the NJOF and is also the founder of Juneteenth Speaks.
Under Jordan and others’ leadership, the NJOF has continued to support education, cultural programs, and civic initiatives tied to Juneteenth.
They have played a key role in shaping Juneteenth events in communities across the country—from city-wide festivals to classroom lessons to museum exhibits.
“Our mission didn’t end with the holiday—it expanded.” — NJOF organizer
Why the NJOF Still Matters
Juneteenth may now be a federal holiday—but the work of ensuring its meaning reaches every household, classroom, and policy conversation continues.
The NJOF continues to:
- Advocate for curriculum inclusion of Juneteenth and Black history in schools
- Partner with institutions to develop educational resources
- Support state and local Juneteenth observances with grants, guidance, and historical context
- Promote economic empowerment and voting access initiatives in Black communities
- Connect Juneteenth to global movements for human rights and liberation
In short, the NJOF is ensuring Juneteenth doesn’t become just another day off—but a day of purpose.
“The work of Juneteenth is never finished. It’s our mirror and our measure.”