    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2008, Book I)]
    [June 19, 2008]
    [Pages 856-857]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Message on the Observance of Juneteenth
    June 19, 2008

        I send greetings to those celebrating Juneteenth.
        On Juneteenth, we commemorate the arrival of Major General Gordon
    Granger in

    [[Page 857]]

    Galveston, Texas, and his declaration that slavery had been abolished
    and the blessings of liberty were finally extended to African Americans.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
        * White House correction.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
        On this occasion, we recognize the many contributions that African
    Americans have made to our great Nation and honor the legacy of
    diversity that America has embraced. Today is an opportunity to recommit
    ourselves to confronting injustice wherever we find it and upholding the
    dignity of all people. By doing so, we protect the freedom and
    democratic ideals that will keep America strong for generations to come.
        Laura and I send our best wishes on this
    memorable occasion.

                                                              George W. Bush

    Note: An original was not available for verification of the content of
    this message.