CHARLESTON, W.V. (WOWK) – People across the nation are gathering together to celebrate Juneteenth, a national holiday that celebrates the official end of slavery in the United States.

Community leaders and neighbors filled a room in the West Virginia Capitol building Thursday to celebrate the Juneteenth holiday.

Advocates showed up at the Capitol on Thursday, as they are pushing for Juneteenth to be recognized as a state holiday. Juneteenth was made a federal holiday in 2021 by the Biden Administration.

Legislators want to put Juneteenth holiday in West Virginia State Code

“Knowing my West Virginia history and knowing what contributions that African Americans have made to this state, we have so many people who have fought for freedom. My relatives have served in the military, have been a part of these historic events in our country. And we need to celebrate,” says Karen Williams, a member of the NAACP who attended the event.

Governor Patrick Morrisey issued a proclamation Wednesday night commemorating Juneteenth.

“West Virginia has a proud founding as a free state during the Civil War and was built upon the principles of freedom and liberty. Juneteenth is an important day in our nation’s history and serves as a reminder that all of us should be treated equally under the eyes of God and the law,” said Governor Morissey.

However, advocates believe the holiday should be recognized at the state level. Del. Hollis Lewis (D-Kanawha) explained that he plans to reintroduce a bill that would do just that. Hollis says the history of how West Virginia was founded intertwines with the end of slavery, and learning from the past is key to building a productive future.