[Congressional Bills 109th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H. Con. Res. 160 Referred in Senate (RFS)]
1st Session
H. CON. RES. 160
_______________________________________________________________________
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES
June 22, 2005
Received and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary
_______________________________________________________________________
CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
Recognizing the historical significance of Juneteenth Independence Day,
and expressing the sense of Congress that history should be regarded as
a means for understanding the past and solving the challenges of the
future.
Whereas news of the end of slavery did not reach frontier areas of the United
States, and in particular the Southwestern States, for more than two
years after President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation of 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
19, commonly known as Juneteenth Independence Day, as the anniversary of
their emancipation;
Whereas African Americans from the Southwest continue the tradition of
Juneteenth Independence Day as inspiration and encouragement for future
generations;
Whereas for more than 135 years, Juneteenth Independence Day celebrations have
been held to honor African American freedom while encouraging self-
development and respect for all cultures;
Whereas although Juneteenth Independence Day is beginning to be recognized as a
national, and even global, event, the history behind the celebration
should not be forgotten; and
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 by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring),
That--
(1) Congress recognizes the historical significance of
Juneteenth Independence Day to the Nation;
(2) Congress supports the continued celebration of
Juneteenth Independence Day to provide an opportunity for the
people of the United States to learn more about the past and to
better understand the experiences that have shaped the Nation;
(3) the President is urged to issue a proclamation calling
on the people of the United States to observe Juneteenth
Independence Day with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and
programs; and
(4) it is the sense of Congress that--
(A) history should be regarded as a means for
understanding the past and solving the challenges of
the future; and
(B) the celebration of the end of slavery is an
important and enriching part of the history and
heritage of the United States.
Passed the House of Representatives June 21, 2005.
Attest:
JEFF TRANDAHL,
Clerk.