[Congressional Bills 105th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[S.J. Res. 11 Engrossed in Senate (ES)]

  1st Session
S. J. RES. 11

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                            JOINT RESOLUTION


 
 Commemorating ``Juneteenth Independence Day'', June 19, 1865, the day 
     on which slavery finally came to an end in the United States.

Whereas news of the end of slavery came late to frontier areas of the country, 
        especially in the American Southwest;
Whereas the African-Americans who had been slaves in the Southwest thereafter 
        celebrated June 19 as the anniversary of their emancipation;
Whereas their descendants handed down that tradition from generation to 
        generation as an inspiration and encouragement for future generations;
Whereas Juneteenth celebrations have thus been held for 130 years to honor the 
        memory of all those who endured slavery and especially those who moved 
        from slavery to freedom; and
Whereas their example of faith and strength of character remains a lesson for 
        all Americans today, regardless of background or region or race: Now, 
        therefore, be it
    Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United 
States of America in Congress assembled, That the annual observance of 
June 19 as Juneteenth Independence Day is an important and enriching 
part of our country's history and heritage.
    Sec. 2. That the celebration of Juneteenth provides an opportunity 
for all Americans to learn more about our common past and to better 
understand the experiences that have shaped our Nation.
    Sec. 3. That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to the 
National Association of Juneteenth Lineage as an expression of 
appreciation for its role in promoting the observance of Juneteenth 
Independence Day.

            Passed the Senate April 10, 1997.

            Attest:

                                                             Secretary.
105th CONGRESS

  1st Session

                             S. J. RES. 11

_______________________________________________________________________

                            JOINT RESOLUTION

 Commemorating ``Juneteenth Independence Day'', June 19, 1865, the day 
     on which slavery finally came to an end in the United States.