Proclamation
JUNETEENTH
“JUNE 2023”
WHEREAS, Juneteenth, or Juneteenth Independence Day, commemorates the traditional observance of the end of slavery in the United States and is observed annually on June 19; and WHEREAS, Juneteenth embodies the indomitable human spirit of the past, the present, and all time; and WHEREAS, the celebration of Juneteenth gives us all the opportunity to rededicate ourselves to the true American spirit and to strive for a more perfect Union; and WHEREAS, President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, and declared that all persons held as slaves "within the rebellious states are, and henceforward shall be free," paving the way for the passing of the thirteenth amendment which formally abolished slavery in the United States of America; and
WHEREAS, Juneteenth symbolizes freedom, celebrates the abolishment of slavery, reminds all Americans of the significant contributions of African Americans to our society, and is a time for reflection and rejoicing, assessment, self-improvement, and planning for the future; and WHEREAS, only through collectively striving may we close gaps of immeasurable distance between us and affirm the promise of the Declaration of Independence that all people have the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness; and
WHEREAS, Juneteenth celebrations are a tribute to those African Americans, then and now, who fought so long and worked so hard to make the dream of equality a reality; and WHEREAS, the collaboration of community-based organizations, faith-based organizations, local businesses, and local government demonstrates a shared commitment to being part of the solution and acknowledging the importance of strength through unity.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that I Michael Clauzel, by virtue of authority vested in me as Mayor of the City of Patterson, and speaking on behalf of the entire City Council, do hereby officially proclaim June 19, 2023 as “Juneteenth Day” and call upon all citizens of the City of Patterson to join in recognizing the importance of this day.
IN WITNESS, HEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the official Seal of the City of Patterson to be affixed this 6
th day of June 2023.
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Michael Clauzel
Mayor