[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 77 (Monday, June 19, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1049]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                A TRIBUTE TO JUNETEENTH INDEPENDENCE DAY

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                           HON. TAMMY BALDWIN

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, June 19, 2000

  Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in order to pay tribute to 
Juneteenth Independence Day. June 19, 1865 is the date that the news of 
freedom reached slaves in Texas; two and a half years after President 
Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. This holiday is 
now celebrated throughout our country as a time of joy, remembrance, 
and reflection.
  It is my sincere hope that all Americans recognize this as a day of 
freedom . . . freedom to learn one's history . . . freedom to shape 
one's own identity . . . freedom to control one's own life. In 
Wisconsin's Second Congressional District, Juneteenth will be 
recognized with a wonderful celebration organized by the Nehemiah 
Community Development Corporation. This annual celebration includes 
beautiful cultural exhibits, colorful dancing, delicious food, exciting 
entertainment, music and much more! I want to commend the organizers of 
this and other important celebrations taking place 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 American as good as its 
promise.'' How true her words are. Locally and nationally, the struggle 
for equality continues, but this holiday offers hope for a better 
future.

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