[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 102 (Tuesday, June 19, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E867]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    153RD ANNIVERSARY OF JUNETEENTH

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. RANDY K. WEBER, SR.

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 19, 2018

  Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise tonight to recognize and 
celebrate Juneteenth.
  153 years ago, General Gordon Granger and his Union troops rode into 
Galveston with an announcement that would change the course of history:
  ``The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a 
proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are 
freed.''
  These powerful words took Galveston, Texas, and our nation by storm. 
The remembrance of Juneteenth is of great national significance. It is 
a day of reflection that inspires each of us. We commemorate the 
heritage and achievements of the African American community. The 
strength and spirit displayed at each passing anniversary of Juneteenth 
is remarkable.
  We must never forget our nation's past. The evils and oppression of 
slavery have no place in society--not then and not now. We must 
remember the moments like Juneteenth, that changed our nation for the 
better. We must grow from here and strive to always celebrate life, 
liberty, and the pursuit of happiness--the unalienable rights that are 
the foundation of our nation.