WKU will close Monday in observance of Juneteenth

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Following President Joe Biden’s signature Thursday making Juneteenth a federal holiday, Western Kentucky University will be closed Monday.

“The significance of this act should be celebrated by all members of our WKU family as we reflect on the importance of ensuring that the promise of freedom means freedom for all,” WKU President Timothy Caboni said in an email to all WKU faculty and staff. “To that end, WKU will add Juneteenth as an official university holiday to our academic calendar each year.”

Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States.

“This year, I am asking our campus to close on Monday, June 21, in observance of Juneteenth. There will be no classes or meetings, and I encourage all of you to separate from your daily routine and reflect on the significance of this day,” the letter reads.