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 21/2 years after President Lincoln's Emancipation
Proclamation, which was issued on 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 19th, commonly known as Juneteenth
Independence Day
, as the anniversary of their emancipation;
Whereas African-Americans from the Southwest continue the
tradition of celebrating Juneteenth Independence Day as inspiration and
encouragement for future generations;
Whereas, for more than 145 years, Juneteenth Independence
Day celebrations have been held to honor African-American freedom while
encouraging self-development and respect for all cultures; 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
That —
(1)the House of
Representatives—
(A)recognizes the
historical significance of Juneteenth Independence Day to the Nation;
(B)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
(C)encourages the
people of the United States to observe Juneteenth Independence Day with
appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs; and
(2)it is the sense of
the House of Representatives that—
(A)the celebration of
the end of slavery is an important and enriching part of the history and
heritage of the United States; and
(B)history should be
regarded as a means for understanding the past and solving the challenges of
the future.