Bill Text: MS SC605 | 2010 | Regular Session | Enrolled
Bill Title: Recognize Juneteenth Freedom Day as day of commemoration.
Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Democrat 3-0)
Status: (Passed) 2010-03-29 - Enrolled Bill Signed [SC605 Detail]
Download: Mississippi-2010-SC605-Enrolled.html
MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE
2010 Regular Session
To: Rules
By: Senator(s) Simmons, Frazier, Jackson (32nd)
Senate Concurrent Resolution 605
(As Adopted by Senate and House)
A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING JUNE 19 AS "JUNETEENTH FREEDOM DAY."
WHEREAS, the date of June 19 is known as "Juneteenth," and it is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States; and
WHEREAS, the commemoration of June 19th as Juneteenth specifically refers to the fact that, even though President Lincoln announced the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, the joyous news of freedom from slavery did not reach certain Americans in Galveston, Texas, until June 19, 1865; and
WHEREAS, Juneteenth commemorates freedom from slavery in America, emphasizes education and achievement, and is a time for reflection and rejoicing in the African-American experience; and
WHEREAS, the celebration of Juneteenth is inclusive of all races, ethnicities, religions and nationalities, in that citizens across our country join hands in acknowledging a period in our history that has influenced our society--a great society that advances the ideals of liberty and justice for all;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONCURRING THEREIN, That we do hereby recognize June 19 as "Juneteenth Freedom Day" in recognition and commemoration of June 19, 1865, as the date of the communication to former slaves of African descent of the fact that slavery had ended in America, and as a day when the ideals of liberty and justice for all citizens is celebrated. We acknowledge that this day is a day of commemoration, recognition and observation and not to be recognized as a legal holiday.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED That this resolution be made available to the Capitol Press Corps.
