[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 85 (Friday, June 18, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1183-E1184]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TO COMMEMORATE JUNETEENTH

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. NICK LAMPSON

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, June 18, 2004

  Mr. LAMPSON. Mr. Speaker, the annual celebration of African American 
Emancipation Day, also known as Juneteenth, had its origins in my 
congressional district. This Juneteenth celebration, a 130 year 
tradition beginning in Galveston, Texas in 1865, has grown into the 
nation's oldest and most widely celebrated commemoration of the end of 
slavery.
  Today, Juneteenth celebrations are hosted in cities across America 
and beyond. It is a day, a week, and in some areas a month-long 
celebration marked with music, festivals, and family gatherings.
  Mr. Speaker, the growing popularity of Juneteenth celebrations 
signifies a level of growth and dignity in America that has been long 
overdue. People of all races, religions and backgrounds come together 
in celebration of Juneteenth to acknowledge a dark period of

[[Page E1184]]

our nation's history that continues to influence our society, and to 
try and make a significant change for the better.
  The festivities in my district include the annual Juneteenth Jubilee 
Parade and Picnic, as well as the Gospel Explosion in the Park and 
Gospel by the Sea. In addition to the annual events, the African 
American Heritage organization will present the exhibit ``The Making of 
an Underground Railroad: From Slavery to Freedom.'' Let us all take a 
moment to recognize this important holiday, and to continue moving 
forward in the spirit of freedom and understanding.

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