Juneteenth​, now recognized as a federal holiday, is more than a day off; it's an important reminder of freedom delayed but never denied.

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

The celebration in Leimert Park, billed as a “Black Family Reunion,” included many of the emotions that come with family reunions: hugs and kisses, shouts of joy, laughter and, of course, tears rooted in the past but also in happiness in being together in the present.