Senate unanimously passes bill to make Juneteenth a federal holiday

The bill now goes to the House. If it passes, Juneteenth will become the 11th federal holiday. Sen. John Cornyn and Rep. Sheila Jackson, both of Texas, first proposed the bill last summer.

The measure now heads to the Democratic-led House, where it is all but certain to pass.

Several states over the last several years have adopted Juneteenth.Cities and towns across the country mark the date with festivals, parades, barbecues and educational events.

If the bill is passed in the House and signed by the president, Juneteenth would become the 11th annual federal holiday.