[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 105 (Tuesday, June 23, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E605]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 CELEBRATING THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE AFRICAN AMERICAN MEN OF UNITY 
               JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION IN AURORA, ILLINOIS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. BILL FOSTER

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 23, 2026

  Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the 
25th Anniversary of the Juneteenth Celebration hosted by the African 
American Men of Unity (AAMOU) at Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Park in 
Aurora, Illinois.
  For twenty-five years, this annual celebration has served as a 
powerful reminder of our Nation's ongoing journey toward freedom, 
equality, and justice. What began as a local effort to commemorate 
Juneteenth has grown into one of the Fox Valley region's most enduring 
and meaningful celebrations of African American history, culture, and 
achievement.
  Founded in 1999, the African American Men of Unity has long been 
dedicated to uplifting the community through mentorship, education, 
leadership development, and service. Under the leadership of Founder 
and Executive Director Ricky Rodgers, AAMOU has worked to create 
opportunities for young people, strengthen families, and promote unity 
throughout Aurora and the surrounding region.
  Through their annual Juneteenth celebration, AAMOU has created a 
space where residents of all backgrounds can come together to reflect 
on the significance of June 19, 1865, the day enslaved African 
Americans in Galveston, Texas finally learned of their freedom more 
than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. The event honors 
the resilience, perseverance, and contributions of African Americans 
while educating future generations about our Nation's history.
  Over the past twenty-five years, the celebration has featured 
educational exhibits, historical tributes, storytelling, music, 
cultural performances, youth activities, athletic competitions, local 
vendors, and opportunities for community engagement. It has become a 
cherished tradition that brings together families, neighbors, civic 
leaders, and organizations in a spirit of remembrance, learning, and 
unity.
  As we mark this milestone 25th anniversary, we also recognize the 
dedicated volunteers, organizers, community partners, and supporters 
whose commitment has sustained this celebration for a quarter century. 
Their work embodies the spirit of service and unity that strengthens 
our communities and enriches our democracy.
  Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize this milestone anniversary, and 
I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the African American Men of 
Unity and all those who have contributed to the success of this 
celebration.

                          ____________________