NFL declares 'Juneteenth', marking the end of slavery in U.S., a league holiday

The NFL will observe June 19 — known as Juneteenth and marks the end of slavery in the U.S. — as a league holiday and close league offices that day.

Commissioner Roger Goodell announced the holiday in an internal memo and comes in the wake of the death of George Floyd on May 25 in Minneapolis. Since then, the league's stand against in-game protests has come under fire from numerous players.

"The power of this historical feat in our country's blemished history is felt each year, but there is no question that the magnitude of this event weighs even more heavily today in the current climate," Goodell wrote.

The memo continued: "This year, as we work together as a family and in our communities to combat the racial injustices that remain deeply rooted in the fabric of our society, the NFL will observe Juneteenth on Friday, June 19th as a recognized holiday and our league offices will be closed. It is a day to reflect on our past, but more importantly, consider how each one of us can continue to show up and band together to work toward a better future."

The NFL, which last week committed to do more to promote equality, pledged on Thursday to donate $250 million US to social-justice causes over a 10-year period.

WATCH | NFL says it was wrong not to listen to players:

Commissioner Goodell says NFL was wrong for not listening to players fighting for equality

4 years ago

Duration 0:49

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell says the league was wrong for not listening to players fighting for racial equality and encourages them to peacefully protest.