Agenda Item 6.b
City of San Rafael
Proclamation Commemorating
Juneteenth
WHEREAS, Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States; and
WHEREAS, Juneteenth was originally celebrated in Texas, on June 19, 1866. It marked the first anniversary of the day that African Americans there first learned of the Emancipation Proclamation, more than two years after it was initially issued; and
WHEREAS, Juneteenth celebrations are a tribute to those African Americans who fought so long for freedom and worked so hard to make the dream of equality a reality; and
WHEREAS, these celebrations are a time for reflection and rejoicing and to celebrate African American culture and achievements through prayer and religious services, speeches, educational events, family gatherings and picnics, and festivals with food, music, and dancing; and
WHEREAS, the City of San Rafael embraces diversity, equity and inclusion and believes that all are valued and welcomed.; and
WHEREAS, we urge our community to join in celebrating Juneteenth as a day to honor and reflect on the significant role that African Americans have played in the history of the United States and how they have enriched society through their steadfast commitment to promoting unity and equality; and WHEREAS, On June 17, 2021, President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day act, declaring the first federal holiday since Martin Luther King Jr. Day in 1983; and
WHEREAS, the City of San Rafael, its elected officials and our employees acknowledge the significance of this day and the importance of Black culture, resilience, and achievements in our country’s history.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that, effective June 2022, Juneteenth is proclaimed 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