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Managing America: Civil Rights

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Week Ending June 22, 2006

H.CON.RES.155 Recognizing the historical significance of Juneteenth Independence Day, and expressing the sense of Congress that history should be regarded as a means for understanding the past and more effectively facing the challenges of the future.

News of President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation arrived in Galveston, TX two years after the Proclamation was made. The day the news arrived, June 19, 1865 became known as Juneteenth Independence Day.

African-Americans from that region began celebrating Juneteenth, saw it as an inspiration to future generations, and continue to do so to this day,  some135 years later.

More resolution below,,,,

Sponsor:  Rep. Danny K. Davis (D-IL-7^th)

Vote: Passed House by voice vote June 18, 2007

Cost to the taxpayers: No discernible cost

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MORE INFORMATION

Whereas news of the end of slavery did not reach frontier areas of the United States, and in particular the Southwestern States, for more than 2 years after President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation of January 1, 1863, and months after the conclusion of the Civil War;

Whereas on June 19, 1865, Union soldiers led by Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, with news that the Civil War had ended and that the enslaved were free;

Whereas African Americans who had been slaves in the Southwest celebrated June 19, commonly known as Juneteenth Independence Day, as the anniversary of their emancipation;

Whereas African Americans from the Southwest continue the tradition of Juneteenth Independence Day as inspiration and encouragement for future generations;

Whereas for more than 135 years, Juneteenth Independence Day celebrations have been held to honor African American freedom while encouraging self-development and respect for all cultures;

Whereas although Juneteenth Independence Day is beginning to be recognized as a national, and even global, event, the history behind the celebration should not be forgotten; and

Whereas the faith and strength of character demonstrated by former slaves remains an example for all people of the United States, regardless of background, religion, or race: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring), That--

(1) Congress recognizes the historical significance of Juneteenth Independence Day to the Nation;

(2) Congress supports the continued celebration of Juneteenth Independence Day to provide an opportunity for the people of the United States to learn more about the past and to better understand the experiences that have shaped the Nation;

(3) the President is urged to issue a proclamation calling on the people of the United States to observe Juneteenth Independence Day with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs; and

(4) it is the sense of Congress that--

(A) history should be regarded as a means for understanding the past and more effectively facing the challenges of the future; and

(B) the celebration of the end of slavery is an important and enriching part of the history and heritage of the United States.

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