The Washington Redskins are giving employees the day off Friday to observe Juneteenth, the holiday commemorating the end of slavery.
Redskins coach Ron Rivera penned a letter to all team employees to explain the decision. Washington joins at least six other NFL teams — the Carolina Panthers, Detroit Lions, Denver Broncos, Houston Texans, Jacksonville Jaguars and Kansas City Chiefs — to recognize the day.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell announced last week that Juneteenth will be recognized as an official holiday, giving league employees the day off.
The Redskins’ choice to observe Juneteenth also comes as the franchise has implemented a series of race-related programs in response to George Floyd’s death.