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PROCLAMATION OF
THE MAYOR & CITY COUNCIL
PROCLAIMING JUNE 19, 2026, AS
JUNETEENTH INDEPENDENCE DAY
IN THE CITY OF SAN BERNARDINO
WHEREAS, on June 19, 1865, Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the end of the Civil War and the emancipation of all enslaved people, more than two and a half years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, making this day one of the most significant moments in American history; and
WHEREAS, Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, Jubilee Day, and Emancipation Day, represents the long-awaited fulfillment of the promise of freedom and equality for African Americans, and stands as a powerful symbol of resilience, perseverance, and the enduring pursuit of justice; a
WHEREAS, on June 17, 2021, President Joseph R. Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law, establishing June 19th as a federal holiday, recognizing the profound importance of this day in the history of the United States of America; and
WHEREAS, the City of San Bernardino is home to a proud and vibrant African American community whose contributions to the culture, history, economy, and civic life of our city have been immeasurable and whose stories of strength and triumph deserve to be honored, celebrated, and preserved; and
WHEREAS, the observance of Juneteenth serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing work needed to dismantle systemic racism, promote equity, and ensure that the promise of freedom and justice is fully realized for all people regardless of race, background, or circumstance; and
WHEREAS, the City of San Bernardino will honor the spirit of Juneteenth with a celebration on June 18, 2026, at the Sizzlin' Summer Nights Concert Series, bringing the community together in the joy, culture, and legacy of freedom that Juneteenth represents.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT PROCLAIMED THAT, the Mayor and City Council of the City of San Bernardino, do hereby proclaim June 19, 2026, as Juneteenth Independence Day in the City of San Bernardino, and call upon all residents to reflect upon the significance of this historic day, honor the legacy of those who fought for freedom and equality, and join in the celebration on June 18th at the Sizzlin' Summer Nights Concert Series as we recommit ourselves to the ongoing pursuit of justice, unity, and opportunity for all.
Presented on the 17th day of June 2026