According to Nielsen Media Research, the episode was seen by an estimated 0.651 million household viewers and gained a 0.3 ratings share among adults aged 18–49.
The episode received extremely positive reviews from critics, who praised the writing, performances and exploration of the subject matter.
After a one-night stand, Earn (Donald Glover) is picked up by Van (Zazie Beetz) so they can attend a Juneteenth-themed party, hosted by her upper class friend, Monique (Cassandra Freeman).
As Earn explores the mansion, he seems curious upon discovering Craig's study room, which is filled with African-American memorabilia.
Earn listens to Craig give a poem based on Jim Crow and leaves the room, where he is approached by two valets who recognize him as Alfred's manager.
Monique orders the valets off, irritated with the help, and seems upset at Earn's job and even insults Alfred when Craig brings up the shooting incident.
In September 2016, FX announced that the ninth episode of the season would be titled "Juneteenth" and that it would be written by Stefani Robinson, and directed by Janicza Bravo.
"[6] Michael Arceneaux of Vulture gave the episode a perfect 5 star rating out of 5 and wrote, "I'll be honest: I don't know how these two are going to make it work.
They offer a good balance to each other, and although much of their tension is rooted in Earn's precarious place in life, I like watching them move together.
"[7] Michael Snydel of Paste wrote, "'Juneteenth' continues the season's prevailing interest in race, class, and self-definition, but it also uses those political themes to dissect the way that relationships can become a series of obligations, even as two people care about each other.