[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 100 (Wednesday, June 20, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1350]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING THE HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF JUNETEENTH INDEPENDENCE DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. AL GREEN

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 19, 2007

  Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Madam Speaker, I am proud to be a co-sponsor 
of H. Con. Res. 155, a resolution recognizing the historical 
significance of Juneteenth Independence Day. ``Juneteenth'' is 
celebrated annually on June 19th to recognize the full emancipation of 
slaves in the State of Texas. President Abraham Lincoln signed the 
Emancipation Proclamation freeing the slaves across the country on 
January 1, 1863. Unfortunately, slaves in Texas did not feel the effect 
of this monumental decision until 2\1/2\ years later. The Emancipation 
Proclamation had little effect on African Americans in Texas due to the 
minimal number of Union troops that were present in Texas to enforce 
the new executive order.
  The Union troops led by General Gordon Granger landed in Galveston, 
Texas on June 19, 1865. Upon General Granger's arrival there was 
massive resistance from the slave owners, regarding the presence of 
Union troops in the State. Despite much opposition, Union forces soon 
became strong enough to influence and overcome that resistance. Granger 
said, ``The people of Texas are informed that in accordance with a 
Proclamation from the Executive of the Untied States, all slaves are 
free. This involves an absolute equality of rights and rights of 
property between former masters and slaves, and the connection 
heretofore existing between them becomes that between employer and free 
laborer.''
  Madam Speaker, the injustice that was committed against the African 
American slaves held captive against their will was immense, as was the 
injustice committed against those held past the captivity date. Had 
General Gordon and his troops not taken the initiative to make the trip 
to Texas, there is no telling when these slaves would have realized 
their freedom.
  I am compelled to recognize the historical significance of 
``Juneteenth'' because the monumental date of June 19, 1865 represents 
the realization of freedom and justice for all. This date symbolizes 
the genius of our country's struggle to bring about a more perfect 
union, a struggle that continues to this very day. Madam Speaker, I 
urge my colleagues to support and recognize the historical significance 
of the Juneteenth Independence Day.

                          ____________________