Thousands of people have been taking part in marches and rallies across New York for Juneteenth. 

The day marks the end of slavery in 1865 in the United States and this year's events come with added significance following the protest movement sparked by the death of George Floyd on May 25 in Minneapolis while in police custody. For the first time, some companies are giving employees the day off but there are calls to make it a nationally recognized holiday. 

Currently, 46 states and Washington, D.C. recognize Juneteenth as an official state holiday or observance.The Governor of New York Andrew Cuomo has signed an executive order making it a paid holiday of state employees. 

CGTN's Sarah Walton is at one such protest.