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H. Res. 1001
In the House of Representatives, U. S.,
June 30, 2020.
Whereas news of the end of slavery did not reach frontier
areas of the United States, and in particular the South-
western States, for more than 21⁄2 years after President
Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation, which was issued
on January 1, 1863, and months after the conclusion of
the Civil War;
Whereas, on June 19, 1865, Union soldiers led by Major
General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas,
with news that the Civil War had ended and that the
enslaved were free;
Whereas African Americans who had been slaves in the
Southwest celebrated June 19th, commonly known as
‘‘Juneteenth Independence Day’’, as the anniversary of
their emancipation;
Whereas African Americans from the Southwest continue the
tradition of celebrating Juneteenth Independence Day as
inspiration and encouragement for future generations;
Whereas for more than 150 years, Juneteenth Independence
Day celebrations have been held to honor African-Amer-
ican freedom while encouraging self-development and re-
spect for all cultures; and
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•HRES 1001 EH
Whereas the faith and strength of character demonstrated by
former slaves remains an example for all people of the
United States, regardless of background, religion, or
race: Now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That—
(1) the House of Representatives—
(A) recognizes the historical significance of
Juneteenth Independence Day to the Nation;
(B) supports the continued celebration of
Juneteenth Independence Day to provide an oppor-
tunity for the people of the United States to learn
more about the past and to better understand the
experiences that have shaped the Nation; and
(C) encourages the people of the United States
to observe Juneteenth Independence Day with ap-
propriate ceremonies, activities, and programs; and
(2) it is the sense of the House of Representatives
that—
(A) the celebration of the end of slavery is an
important and enriching part of the history and
heritage of the United States; and
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•HRES 1001 EH
(B) history should be regarded as a means for
understanding the past and solving the challenges
of the future.
Attest:
Clerk.