[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 86 (Thursday, June 17, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1309]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        A TRIBUTE TO JUNETEENTH

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                           HON. TAMMY BALDWIN

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 17, 1999

  Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge Juneteenth 
Independence Day. June 19, 1865, is the date that news of freedom 
reached slaves in Texas; two and one-half years after President Lincoln 
signed the Emancipation Proclamation to abolish slavery. This holiday 
is now celebrated throughout our country as a time of joy, remembrance, 
and reflection.
  It is my hope that all citizens recognize this important day and that 
we celebrate together for our communities, our nation, and our 
children. Among the plans for celebrating this day in Wisconsin's 
Second Congressional District, the Nehemiah Community Development 
Corporation's 1999 Juneteenth Celebration Executive Committee has 
organized a special event with beautiful cultural exhibits, colorful 
dancing, delicious food, exciting entertainment and music! I want to 
commend the organizers of this and other important celebrations going 
on in Wisconsin and throughout the United States.
  Former U.S. Representative Barbara Jordan captured the aspirations of 
many who recognize the important symbolism of this day. She said, 
``What the people want is simple. They want an America as good as its 
promise.'' How true her words are. Locally and nationally, the struggle 
for equality continues, but this holiday offers hopefulness for a 
better future.

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