Juneteenth.

It commemorates the end of slavery in the U.S. by acknowledging June 19, 1865, the day union forces liberated the last enslaved people in Texas.

In many states, it's already a holiday, but not Kentucky.

The Kentucky General Assembly has never passed a bill to make it a state holiday.

Today, Governor Andy Beshear took action.

It is impossible for me to ever fully imagine the horror and lasting scars and legacy of slavery and Jim Crow.

But as governor, I'm committed to listening, to learning, to trying to hear, and then to take intentional action, because I know if we work together, the inches that become the feet can become the miles of progress.

They can create lasting change.

There's a dad to two kids.

I want to continue to try to set a good example.

After years of inaction, I've decided I can no longer wait for others to do what is right.

So in a few moments, I'll once again sit at that signing table.

But this time I will sign an executive order officially making Juneteenth a day to give thanks to the many contributions of African-Americans.

And naming it an executive branch holiday here in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Recognizing Juneteenth as an official state holiday honors the legacy and contributions of African Americans to our nation's history.

It adds to that story that we all are continuing to make.

It reinforces the profound truth that freedom and justice are inalienable rights of all Americans transcending race and region and origin.

Honoring Juneteenth Fosters unity and Progress.

Aligning Kentucky with the federal recognition of this significant day.

The governor's acknowledgment of Juneteenth paves the way for collaborative efforts between the executive branch and the exhibit and the legislative to ensure that this significant day is properly recognized and celebrated through our state.

His leadership inspires us, all of us, to continue working together to promote awareness, education and understanding of the historical and cultural importance of Juneteenth.

And there is more.

The governor also signed an executive order similar to the Crown Act, another bill that's been introduced but never passed in the Kentucky General Assembly.

The governor's order means state workplaces cannot discriminate based on hair textures and hairstyles.