Agenda Item 5.g ii
City of San Rafael
Proclamation in Recognition of
JUNETEENTH
June 19, 2023
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, the day was originally celebrated in Texas on June 19, 1866, and on June 17, 2021, the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act was signed into law, marking the dates as a federal holiday; and
WHEREAS, over 100 years of tributes, commemoration, and gatherings have been held to celebrate the ending of enslavement and to acknowledge and honor the individuals, families, and descendants of those who had been deprived of freedom and dignity; 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 and community events, family gatherings and picnics, and festivals with food, music, and dancing; and WHEREAS, the City of San Rafael embraces diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging and believes that all people are valued and welcomed; and WHERAS, the City of San Rafael, its elected officials, and our employees acknowledge the significance of this day, and the importance of African American culture, resilience, and achievements in our local, state, and nation’s history.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and City Council of the City of San Rafael hereby proclaim Juneteenth, June 19, 2023, 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