[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 39, Number 25 (Monday, June 23, 2003)]
[Page 786]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Message on the Observance of Juneteenth, 2003

June 19, 2003

    I send greetings to those celebrating Juneteenth.
    In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation 
Proclamation, declaring ``that all persons held as slaves'' within the 
rebellious states ``are, and henceforward shall be, free.'' This news 
reached slaves slowly as word was passed by Union soldiers and 
individual plantation owners. Almost two years later, on June 19, 1865, 
Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, to declare the 
end of the Civil War and the freedom of the slaves.
    Juneteenth commemorates General Granger's announcement and provides 
an opportunity for people across America to celebrate the end of slavery 
and the joy of freedom. On this day, I encourage all citizens to learn 
more about the rich heritage of African Americans and their many 
contributions to our Nation. With knowledge and understanding, we will 
continue our efforts to ensure that our society provides the opportunity 
for every person, of every race, to realize the promise of America.
    Laura joins me in sending our best wishes for a memorable 
celebration.
                                                George W. Bush

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