[Congressional Bills 110th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H. Res. 1237 Engrossed in House (EH)]


                In the House of Representatives, U. S.,

                                                         June 18, 2008.
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, That--
            (1) the House of Representatives recognizes the historical 
        significance of Juneteenth Independence Day to the Nation;
            (2) the House of Representatives 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; and
            (3) it is the sense of the House of Representatives 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.
            Attest:

                                                                          Clerk.