Two retail giants have made the move to recognize Juneteenth as a company holiday.

JCPenney and Target announced the decision recently with both companies continuing to listen to employees regarding inclusion and diversity.

Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of the last remaining African American slaves. It is celebrated on June 19, the date in 1865 when Union General Gordon Granger read federal orders that enslaved people were free.

Both Target and JCPenney say that stores will remain open on June 19 but employees will receive additional pay for working.

JCPenney CEO Jill Soltau announced in a message to the company that hourly employees working on Juneteenth will receive additional holiday pay.

Target announced in a news release that hourly team members will be paid time and a half with eligible team members having the option to take the day off with full pay. Headquarter offices will be closed to observe the holiday.

The move comes three weeks after the passing of George Floyd which sparked countless protests at both the local and national levels.