Observing Juneteenth

BECU Closed Monday, June 20 To Honor Juneteenth

All BECU locations will be closed in observance of the newly recognized Washington state legal holiday, which honors the day in 1865 when slavery finally ended in Texas.

What We're Recognizing

Juneteenth — also known as Emancipation Day, Jubilee Day and Freedom Day  — commemorates the date, June 19, 1865, when the Union Army announced the end of slavery in Texas. Although the Emancipation Proclamation had been issued on January 1, 1863, it took over two years for the enforcement of the proclamation to take effect in Texas, one of the last states to come under control of the Union Army. 

Juneteenth is an opportunity to reflect on the African American experience in our society and the lasting impact of slavery. It is a day to acknowledge progress and recognize the work that needs to be done to dismantle racism and truly realize racial equity. Learn more about the historical and financial significance of Juneteenth.

How BECU Is Observing Juneteenth

The Washington State Legislature declared Juneteenth a legal state holiday in the spring of 2021, with required observance from state entities to begin this year. Given BECU's commitment to becoming a more inclusive and equitable organization, we began recognizing Juneteenth as an official company holiday last year. While our locations will be closed on June 20, members will still have access to BECU's digital banking services including ATMs, Online Banking and the mobile app. Visit our Bank Anywhere page for more information about the self-serve options available to you.