King County government will observe Juneteenth as a new paid holiday for the first time this year, on Monday, June 20.  

Last year, King County Council passed two Ordinances and King County bargained Agreements for represented employees to establish Juneteenth (June 19) and Indigenous Peoples’ Day (second Monday in October) as paid holidays starting in 2022 for King County employees who are eligible for comprehensive leave benefits.

This year, King County government offices will be closed on Monday, June 20 in observance of Juneteenth.

The establishment of Juneteenth and Indigenous Peoples’ Day as new holidays reflects our work to build a more racially just King County by honoring and strengthening our understanding of our history. They will be dedicated as days of service and learning, and provide an opportunity for us to deepen our knowledge about our nation’s history, Black and Indigenous heritage and culture, and the many ongoing contributions of Black and Indigenous people in our region. They will also help us sharpen our focus and commitment to undo the institutionalized racist practices and policies that harm Black, Indigenous, and People of Color today.    

There will be ongoing events and opportunities in the leadup to both Juneteenth and Indigenous Peoples’ Day to learn more about their significance to the history and experience of Black and Indigenous people, our nation, and our shared journey going forward.