MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE
2007 Regular Session
To: Rules
By: Senator(s) Jackson (11th), Jackson (32nd), Frazier, Horhn, Simmons, Dawkins, Turner, Thomas, Butler, Jordan, Harden
A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION DESIGNATING THE THIRD SATURDAY OF JUNE, IN 2007 AND IN EACH SUCCEEDING YEAR, AS "JUNETEENTH" FREEDOM DAY IN MISSISSIPPI.
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 and acknowledges the great advances in race relations which have occurred in the State of Mississippi over the past generation; and
WHEREAS, Mississippi will again be set apart as a national leader in seeking to bridge a difficult past and complicated present to attain a harmonious and prosperous future, and the commemoration of "Juneteenth" offers an occasion to remember the bonds of our unity and common destiny:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONCURRING THEREIN, That the third Saturday of June in 2007, and in each succeeding year, be designated as "Juneteenth" Freedom Day in Mississippi.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That we do hereby call upon the people of the State of Mississippi to reflect upon the significant roles and many contributions of African-Americans to Mississippi and the nation throughout history and today, and to celebrate this day with appropriate activities and events that honor this rich legacy.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State shall transmit a copy of this resolution to the State Superintendent of Education, the Director of the State Board of Community and Junior Colleges, the Commissioner of Higher Education and to members of Mississippi's congressional delegation for dissemination to their students and respective constituents, and the Secretary of the Senate shall post the designation of this day on the Legislature's Web site, so that all citizens may be apprised of the sense of the Legislature in this matter.