[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 94 (Tuesday, June 22, 2010)]
[House]
[Pages H4643-H4645]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                RECOGNIZING JUNETEENTH INDEPENDENCE DAY

  Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and 
agree to the resolution (H. Res. 546) recognizing the historical 
significance of Juneteenth Independence Day, and expressing the sense 
of the House of Representatives that history should be regarded as a 
means for understanding the past and more effectively facing the 
challenges of the future.
  The Clerk read the title of the resolution.
  The text of the resolution is as follows:

                              H. Res. 546

       Whereas news of the end of slavery did not reach frontier 
     areas of the United States, and in particular the 
     Southwestern States, for more than 2 years after President 
     Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation of January 1, 1863, and 
     months after the conclusion of the Civil War;
       Whereas, on June 19, 1865, Union soldiers led by Major 
     General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, with news 
     that the Civil War had ended and that the enslaved were free;
       Whereas African-Americans who had been slaves in the 
     Southwest celebrated June 19, commonly known as Juneteenth 
     Independence Day, as the anniversary of their emancipation;
       Whereas African-Americans from the Southwest continue the 
     tradition of Juneteenth Independence Day as inspiration and 
     encouragement for future generations;
       Whereas for more than 135 years, Juneteenth Independence 
     Day celebrations have been held to honor African-American 
     freedom while encouraging self-development and respect for 
     all cultures;
       Whereas although Juneteenth Independence Day is beginning 
     to be recognized as a national, and even global, event, the 
     history behind the celebration should not be forgotten; and
       Whereas the faith and strength of character demonstrated by 
     former slaves remains an example for all people of the United 
     States, regardless of background, religion, or race: Now, 
     therefore, be it
       Resolved, That--
       (1) the House of Representatives recognizes the historical 
     significance of Juneteenth Independence Day to the Nation;
       (2) the House of Representatives supports the continued 
     celebration of Juneteenth Independence Day to provide an 
     opportunity for the people of the United States to learn more 
     about the past and to better understand the experiences that 
     have shaped the Nation; and
       (3) it is the sense of the House of Representatives that--
       (A) history should be regarded as a means for understanding 
     the past and more effectively facing the challenges of the 
     future; and
       (B) the celebration of the end of slavery is an important 
     and enriching part of the history and heritage of the United 
     States.

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from 
Illinois (Mr. Davis) and the gentleman from Nebraska (Mr. Smith) each 
will control 20 minutes.
  The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Illinois.


                             General Leave

  Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all 
Members may have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend 
their remarks.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the 
gentleman from Illinois?
  There was no objection.
  Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may 
consume.
  Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 546, a resolution that 
recognizes the historical significance of Juneteenth Independence Day 
and expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that history 
should be regarded as a means for understanding the past and more 
effectively facing the challenges of the future. I am delighted that we 
can bring this measure to the floor today.
  I introduced H. Res. 546 on June 15, 2009, and the Committee on 
Oversight and Government Reform ordered it to be reported by unanimous 
consent on June 17, 2010. It comes to the floor with over 60 
cosponsors. I am pleased to join with them in recognizing this 
important day.
  Juneteenth, or the 19th of June, recognizes June 19, 1865, when, in 
Galveston, Texas, Union General Gordon Granger announced freedom for 
all slaves in the Southwest.

                              {time}  1430

  This was the last major vestige of slavery in the United States 
following the end of the Civil War. This event occurred more than 2\1/
2\ years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued by President 
Abraham Lincoln. Upon reading of General Order No. 3 by General 
Granger, the former slaves celebrated jubilantly, establishing 
America's second independence day celebration and the oldest African 
American holiday observance.
  Since that time over 145 years ago, the descendants of slaves have 
observed this anniversary of emancipation as a remembrance of one of 
the most tragic periods in our Nation's history. The suffering, 
degradation, and brutality of slavery cannot be repaired; but the 
memory can serve to ensure that no such inhumanity is ever perpetrated 
again on American soil.
  Today, Juneteenth celebrates African American freedom while 
encouraging self-development and respect for all cultures. This 
celebration of the end of slavery is an important and enriching part of 
the history and heritage of the United States. I, therefore, ask my 
colleagues to join me in supporting the passage of this measure.
  With that, Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
  Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may 
consume.
  I rise today in support of H. Res. 546, recognizing the historical 
significance of Juneteenth Independence Day. It is important to once 
again remember a day when the wants and needs of the people brought our 
country out of one of the darkest stages of its history. It is through 
recognition of such an incredible achievement that we are able to pave 
the way for many more like it.
  On June 19, 1865, 2,000 Federal soldiers marched into Galveston and 
notified the slaves of Texas that their lives of servitude were over. 
Amazingly, this action took place more than 2 years after President 
Lincoln's famous Emancipation Proclamation speech was delivered.
  Over 100 years later, Juneteenth serves as a time when we can 
celebrate the true end to slavery in the United States. June 19, 
commonly known as Juneteenth, also reminds us that it is our duty to 
constantly work to better our country. On this day, we celebrate 
culture and, more importantly, emancipation. It is important that our 
children learn along with our families about the times surrounding the 
Civil War, but also of this monumental achievement that followed that 
June day in Galveston.
  By taking time to celebrate Juneteenth Independence Day, we honor the 
richness, diversity, and heritage of all races in our Nation. I ask all 
my fellow Members to join me in support of H. Res. 546.
  Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of 
``Juneteenth,'' the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the

[[Page H4644]]

ending of slavery in the United States. Originally a celebration of the 
announcement of the abolition of slavery in Galveston, Texas in 1865, 
the holiday has come to symbolize our Nation's most significant moment 
of moral and social progress: the end of the Civil War, the abolition 
of slavery throughout the full United States, and the freedom of 
enslaved African Americans after hundreds of years of untold oppression 
and hardship endured.
  The observance of June 19th as the African American Emancipation Day 
originated in Galveston, Texas in 1865, and is now celebrated around 
the United States. This day was chosen because it was on June 19, 1865 
that the Union soldiers landed at Galveston, Texas with news that the 
war had ended and informed the enslaved population that they had been 
set free under President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation a full two 
and one half years earlier. The day was largely celebrated within 
African-American communities until the Civil Rights Movement, when 
Reverend Ralph Abernathy called for people of all races, economic 
strata, and professions to come to Washington, D.C. to show support for 
the impoverished and oppressed at the Poor Peoples March on June 19, 
1968. Many of the participants returned home and initiated Juneteenth 
celebrations in their own communities.
  Every year, the celebration of Juneteenth grows in popularity across 
the United States. It is a day when we recognize and remember the evils 
of slavery, the suffering it caused, and the lives it took. But it is 
also a day that celebrates African American freedom and achievement 
with celebrations, guest speakers, picnics, and family gatherings. 
Participants of all races, nationalities and religions celebrate and 
take the time to reflect on the past and rejoice in the present and 
future. Finally, it is an opportunity to emphasize the need for 
continued efforts to promote educational, economic, political, and 
social equality throughout our country.
  Mr. Speaker, in the wonderfully diverse 37th District, we share as a 
community a legacy of overcoming difficulties, working to defeat our 
obstacles, and empowering ourselves to improve our lives and our 
neighborhoods. I am proud that, this year, in the 37th district, the 
cities of Carson, Compton, and Long Beach, as well as the neighborhoods 
of Watts and Willowbrook, all held Juneteenth celebrations. I was 
fortunate enough to attend the celebration in Compton and can say that 
it was at once a solemn remembrance of those who struggled against 
slavery and oppression, an inspiring celebration of freedom, and an 
opportunity to revisit the past in order to improve our collective 
future.
  As we celebrate Juneteenth, Mr. Speaker, I urge all Members to 
recognize this day and take a moment to honor the women and men that 
dedicated their lives to ending slavery and promoting freedom and 
equality in our Nation.
  Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my 
strong support for H. Res. 546 recognizing the historical significance 
of Juneteenth Independence Day, and expressing the sense of the House 
of Representatives that history should be regarded as a means for 
understanding the past and more effectively facing the challenge of the 
future. I would like to applaud my colleague Representative Davis for 
his persistence in celebrating this momentous occasion in U.S. history.
  When Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation into law in 
1863, he freed the slaves in the confederate states. Though they were 
free on paper many slaves continued with their lives unaware of their 
freedom. Such was the case in Galveston, Texas. For two years the black 
population of this city lived their lives as slaves, as opposed to 
other southern states like Georgia and North Carolina in which the 
black population knew of the Emancipation Proclamation. On June 19th, 
the situation changed when Union General Gordon Granger announced the 
news of their freedom to the black citizens of Galveston. Seen as one 
of the last bastions of slavery, General Granger's announcement brought 
about the end of slavery in Texas.
  We often praise this country for the great freedom that it affords 
its citizens, yet Juneteenth serves as a consistent and glaring 
reminder of our darker past. While it is true that significant strides 
have been made since then, it is important that we not forget from 
whence we come and learn from it. I'm proud to represent the state of 
Georgia in the United States House of Representatives, but I also 
recognize that the great state I serve did allow the oppression of 
blacks as slaves. History is a tool to be used for growth--a means 
through which we can understand and face the challenges of tomorrow.
  Today Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, is now recognized as a 
state holiday in 36 states and primarily serves to remind, inspire, and 
encourage future generations. Mr. Speaker, I stand proudly to support 
this resolution and would urge my colleagues to do the same.
  Mr. PAUL. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to support H. Con. Res. 546, 
legislation commemorating a monumental day in the history of liberty, 
Juneteenth Independence Day. Juneteenth marks the events of June 19, 
1865, when slaves in Galveston, Texas learned that they were at last 
free men and women. The slaves of Galveston were the last group of 
slaves to learn of the end of slavery. Thus, Juneteenth represents the 
end of slavery in America.
  I hope all Americans will take the time to commemorate Juneteenth. 
Friends of human liberty should celebrate the end of slavery in any 
country. The end of American slavery is particularly worthy of 
recognition since there are few more blatant violations of America's 
founding principles, as expressed in the Declaration of Independence, 
than slavery. I am particularly pleased to join the recognition of 
Juneteenth because I have the privilege of representing Galveston.
  I thank the gentleman from Illinois for introducing this resolution, 
which I am proud to cosponsor. I thank the House leadership for 
bringing this resolution to the floor, and I urge all of my colleagues 
to honor the end of slavery by voting for H. Con. Res. 546.
  Mr. CONYERS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of House Resolution 546 
recognizing the historical significance of Juneteenth Independence Day. 
On June 19th, 1865 Union soldiers, led by Major General Gordon Granger, 
landed at Galveston, Texas with news that the war had ended and that 
the enslaved were now free. This news was declared two and a half years 
after President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. Because the slaves 
spent two years unnecessarily enslaved, this day had been declared a 
holiday; Juneteenth is the oldest holiday in the United States 
commemorating the ending of slavery. The Juneteenth holiday is a day 
where peoples of all races can reflect on the evils and suffering of 
slavery and recognize the contributions that African Americans have 
made to society since Juneteenth.
  When I first came to this body, these were the same issues that my 
constituents and the African American community at-large faced. As we 
commemorate Juneteenth, there will be celebrations, but I hope there 
will also be reflections. Even today, the vestiges of slavery still 
impose the cycle of poverty on the descendants of the freedmen. As time 
has passed, many have said the free market would take care of these 
people, but it is clear that it has left them behind. As we commemorate 
today, we must not forget to pursue the unfinished business of equality 
that emancipation began so long ago.
  Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support 
of H. Res. 546 which recognizes the historical significance of 
Juneteenth Independence Day, and expressing the sense of the House of 
Representatives that history should be regarded as a means for 
understanding the past and more effectively facing the challenges of 
the future.
  On June 19, 1865, the day Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, 
with news that the Civil War had ended and that the enslaved African-
Americans were free, ``Juneteenth Independence Day'' was born. On this 
historic day, legend has it, while standing on the balcony of 
Galveston's Ashton Villa, Granger read the contents of ``General Order 
No. 3'':

       The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a 
     proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all 
     slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of 
     personal rights and rights of property between former masters 
     and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between 
     them becomes that between employer and hired labor. The 
     freedmen are advised to remain quietly at their present homes 
     and work for wages. They are informed that they will not be 
     allowed to collect at military posts and that they will not 
     be supported in idleness either there or elsewhere.

  In that moment, Galveston streets were filled with jubilant 
celebrations and the following year, the commemoration of June 19th or 
Juneteenth celebrations began in Texas. The newly freed African-
Americans pulled what few resources they had to purchase land in their 
communities to have these gatherings. Houston's Emancipation Park, 
Mexia's Booker T. Washington Park, and Emancipation Park in Austin are 
the present day result of these efforts.
  Mr. Speaker, I can image how the words of President Lincoln resonated 
in their hearts and souls; life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness 
for all equal citizens was no longer a dream, they were a reality. 
Hundreds of thousands of American citizens were released from the grips 
of bondage; we are freed men and women. However, while it is a 
celebration of our emancipation, it is also a reminder of the progress 
we have yet to make.
  The Emancipation Proclamation Abraham Lincoln issued on September 22, 
1862, with an effective date of January 1, 1863, had minimal initial 
effect in some States. Let this be a reminder, that words are 
meaningless without action. We must be steadfast and willing to do our 
parts as citizens to uphold and carry out

[[Page H4645]]

the will of the people and the laws of our great Nation. The United 
States has made great strides of improvement and we continue to press 
forward to obtain those values in which we hold dear.
  Juneteenth became an official State holiday through the efforts of Al 
Edwards, an African-American State legislator from Texas in 1980. The 
successful passage of this bill marked Juneteenth as the first 
emancipation celebration granted official State recognition. As of 
March 2010, 36 States have followed suit in the celebrations and the 
adoption of this historic day. In my district, we actively celebrate 
this holiday through, reenactments, of the reading of the Emancipation 
Proclamation at Ashton Villa and various parades and musical events all 
across Houston.
  Juneteenth is a day to reflect upon the African-American experience 
and it includes all races, ethnicities and nationalities. It is a 
symbolical reference point of our progress and the contributions we 
have made to make this country what it is today. Juneteenth is a time 
to reconnect with loved ones and have a renewed sense of community.
  In conclusion, I am reminded of what President Obama stated 2 years 
ago pertaining to Juneteenth and the continued pursuit of the values 
embedded in this day:

       We pause to remember that our nation has made tremendous 
     progress, but has many miles to go on the long march toward 
     finally fulfilling the ideals of this country. When too many 
     Americans go without affordable healthcare or a quality 
     education; when neighborhoods unravel due to a housing market 
     in crisis; when special interests hold their thumbs on the 
     scale of opportunity; we have more work to do.
       Juneteenth is a day for celebration of freedom and family, 
     but also a day that calls us all to rededicate ourselves to 
     the convictions at the heart of our American experiment. It 
     reminds us that with the work of each successive generation, 
     we come closer to the realization of that more perfect union.

  Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. I yield back the balance of my time.
  Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues to 
join me in supporting this resolution, and I yield back the balance of 
my time.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The question is on the motion offered by the 
gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Davis) that the House suspend the rules 
and agree to the resolution, H. Res. 546.
  The question was taken.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the opinion of the Chair, two-thirds 
being in the affirmative, the ayes have it.
  Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and 
nays.
  The yeas and nays were ordered.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to clause 8 of rule XX and the 
Chair's prior announcement, further proceedings on this motion will be 
postponed.

                          ____________________