HomeMy WebLinkAboutHR Presentation of Proclamation Supporting Juneteenth
City of San Rafael
Proclamation in Recognition of
JUNETEENTH
June 19, 2024
WHEREAS, Juneteenth, also known as “Freedom Day” or “Emancipation Day,”
nationally celebrates the date in 1865 when the people of Galveston,
Texas, were informed that two years prior, by Executive Order, all
enslaved people in the United States were freed; and
WHEREAS, With the day originally celebrated in Texas on June 19, 1866, Juneteenth
is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of
slavery in the United States; and on June 17, 2021, the Juneteenth
National Independence Day Act was signed into law, marking the date
as a federal holiday; and
WHEREAS, To acknowledge and honor the individuals, families, and descendants of
those who had been deprived of freedom, dignity, and opportunities,
communities around the United States hold tributes, commemorations,
festivals, and gatherings to reflect and remember this momentous and
defining point in history; and
WHEREAS, The City acknowledges the individual and collective trauma inflicted
upon enslaved persons and we remember and honor their resilience and
strength to continue to move forward against adversity; and
WHEREAS, The City of San Rafael embraces diversity, equity, inclusion and
belonging and believes that all people are valued and welcomed,
community members are encouraged to join in celebrating Juneteenth as
a day to honor and reflect on the significant role that African Americans
have played in the history and development of the United States.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and City Council of the City of San Rafael
hereby proclaim June 19, 2024, as Juneteenth, as an official holiday for the City of San Rafael
in observance of the emancipation of enslaved persons in the United States and the City
reaffirms its commitment to safeguard the civil rights, safety, and dignity of all its residents.
Kate Colin
Mayor