[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 100 (Wednesday, June 20, 2007)]
[Senate]
[Page S8056]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[[Page S8056]]
                             JUNETEENTH DAY

  Mr. KOHL. Mr. President, I rise to recognize Juneteenth Day, a yearly 
commemoration of the abolition of slavery in our country.
  As a nation we value and appreciate the freedom and independence 
Juneteenth Day represents. Historically, Juneteenth Day has been a 
celebration of our country's rich African-American heritage and has 
promoted awareness about the history of African American sacrifice.
  A great celebration took place on June 19, 1865, when slavery was 
finally abolished 2 years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Fishing, 
festivals, barbecuing and baseball are just a few of the typical 
Juneteenth activities people enjoy today. Juneteenth has long been a 
day of education and enlightenment and often includes guest speakers 
and prayer services.
  I believe that observing Juneteeth Day is necessary to truly embrace 
the equality and freedom our country represents. We live in a 
culturally diverse nation and celebrations like Juneteenth Day 
encourage us to understand and respect the differences that make our 
country great.
  It is imperative that we continue the work of achieving racial and 
ethnic harmony and I am honored to acknowledge this important day. I 
commend the tremendous dedication of the people who participate in the 
annual Juneteenth Day celebrations.

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