PORTSMOUTH, New Hampshire: Juneteenth celebrations unfolded across the US on Thursday, marking the day in 1865 when Union soldiers brought the news of freedom to enslaved Black people in Texas and attracting participants who said current events strengthened their resolve to be heard. President Donald Trump honored Juneteenth in each of his first four years as president, even before it became a federal holiday.

Journalist and author Isabel Wilkerson reflects on this year's Juneteenth celebrations — and the push and pull of the Black experience in America.

With flags, ceremonies, parades and pomp, celebrations across the United States marked the day the promise of freedom finally rang true for more Americans.